Chamoli: The excitement around the National Winter Championships and Carnival in Auli has turned into worry as snow on the ski slopes is melting quickly. The events are scheduled from February 12 to 16, but the current conditions are raising doubts about whether the competitions can take place.
Recently, Auli received snowfall, which created hope for the upcoming games. Following this, the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) and the Tourism Department announced the dates for the championships and carnival. However, the snow has not lasted long. The lower areas of the slopes are already bare, and the snow cover is thinning fast.
ITBP raises concern
Officials from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), who manage skiing activities in Auli, have declared that the snow is insufficient for hosting the national skiing competition. They explained that at least one foot of snow is required on the slopes for safe and fair competition. Without fresh snowfall, the games will not be possible.
Athletes worried
Local athletes have also voiced their concerns. Skier Dinesh Bhatt said that holding the national competition is not possible in the current conditions. Another skier, Mahendra Bhujwan, added that the snow is melting so fast that it is unlikely the slopes will remain covered until the scheduled dates. Both athletes stressed that only a significant snowfall in the next few days can save the championships.
Impact on Winter Carnival
The Winter Carnival, which is planned alongside the championships, is also at risk. The carnival is meant to showcase Auli’s natural beauty, promote tourism, and provide entertainment to visitors. Without snow, the charm of the carnival will be lost, and the tourism boost expected from the event may not materialize.
Auli’s importance
Auli is one of India’s most famous skiing destinations, attracting tourists and athletes from across the country. Hosting national-level competitions here not only promotes winter sports but also strengthens Uttarakhand’s image as a hub for adventure tourism. The current situation highlights the growing challenge of unpredictable weather and its impact on tourism and sports.
With just days left before the scheduled events, all eyes are on the weather. If Auli receives heavy snowfall soon, the championships and carnival may still go ahead. Otherwise, the lack of snow could force organizers to cancel or postpone the national competition, disappointing athletes and visitors alike.