Peaks of Possibility: PM Modi’s Ski Lift gift transforms Sonamarg’s landscape

Srinagar, Mar 8: An air of excitement and optimism pervaded the picturesque resort of Sonamarg as Prime Minister Narendra Modi e-inaugurated the much-awaited ski drag lift on Thursday.
Locals and tourism players alike hailed this development as a significant step towards transforming Sonamarg into a second Gulmarg, widely renowned for its world-class winter sports and adventure activities.

The inauguration ceremony was a testament to the collective aspirations of the region, with residents and stakeholders expressing their heartfelt gratitude to the Prime Minister and the Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA) for laying the foundation for this ambitious project.
“We are thankful to the Prime Minister as well as the SDA who laid the foundation for this ski drag lift, which would attract tourists as well as locals to Sonamarg during the winter months,” said Ghulam Ahmad Raina, a local resident, his voice brimming with pride.
The ski drag lift, a state-of-the-art facility installed by the Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation, has already become an instant hit among adventure tourism lovers, marking the first time that skiing has been introduced in Sonamarg. Officials revealed that the ski drag lift boasts an impressive capacity of 300 skis per hour and spans a distance of 260 meters.
“The installation of the ski drag lift at Sonamarg will be an added advantage to this destination, which will be beneficial for the promotion of winter tourism in the area,” officials stated enthusiastically. “This area will become the main hub for skiers, which will not only boost winter tourism but also provide a platform for the young talent of the area to advance in winter sports activities.”
The J&K Cable Car Corporation has set up the infrastructure, and the Tourism Department, in collaboration with the Youth Service and Sports Department and the Sonamarg Development Authority, has plans to organize ski courses and winter games, further enhancing the region’s appeal as a premier winter destination.
Sonamarg, which previously remained inaccessible during the winter months due to a lack of basic facilities, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. The government’s concerted efforts to keep the town open during the winter season and promote it as a winter tourist destination have borne fruit, with the completion of the Z-Morh Tunnel ensuring connectivity throughout the colder months.