A significant step toward promoting winter sports in Ladakh was taken on April 12, as the second phase of the feasibility assessment for the proposed Snow Ski Academy at Manman Ski Slope, Drass, was conducted by a high-level committee constituted by the UT Administration.

Led by Executive Councillor of LAHDC Kargil, Er. Punchok Tashi, the assessment team included Councillor Abdul Wahid (Bhimbhat Constituency), Councillor Abdul Samad (Ranbirpura), DYSS Officer Abid Hussain, engineers from PWD Division Drass, technical experts from the Ladakh Ski and Snowboard Association, Ski Mountaineering Association Ladakh, consultant Mr. Rajesh from Ronmas Delhi, as well as local skiing professionals and members of the Snow & Ski Board Association Drass.

Murtaza Agha, President of the Snow & Ski Board Association Drass, highlighted the enormous potential of the Manman Ski Slope, which boasts a skiing season stretching from November–December to mid-May — longer than most skiing destinations in the country. He appealed to the administration to promote the slope at a larger scale, both as a training hub and a tourist destination for winter sports.

The committee then proceeded to the site, where technical experts conducted an on-ground evaluation of the terrain, gradient, and essential infrastructural needs. Discussions focused on laying the groundwork for the Snow Ski Academy, including the installation of chairlifts or draglifts, snow grooming machinery, and modern skiing equipment.

Both councillors Abdul Wahid and Abdul Samad assured their full support for the academy, emphasizing the role of community collaboration in realizing the project.

Executive Councillor Er. Punchok Tashi directed the expert team to submit a detailed survey report at the earliest. He emphasized that key infrastructure such as Chairlift/Draglift systems, Snow Grooming/Beating Machines, and equipment availability must be prioritized for successful execution.
Notably, the UT Administration had approved the establishment of Winter Sport Academies for Drass and Zanskar in 2022 under the Youth Services and Sports Department. However, implementation was delayed due to various challenges. Now, with renewed commitment, the administration aims to move forward with the plan in the current financial year, recognizing the urgent need to promote snow-related sports activities in Ladakh.

Snowboarding expert Iftikhar Hussain and Manzoor Hussain, a retired army ski professional, also offered insights during the assessment.

The event concluded with a note of gratitude from the Snow & Ski Board Association Drass. The association urged the administration to take swift and concrete steps toward establishing the Snow Ski Academy, envisioning Manman Slope as Ladakh’s premier winter sports destination.