Why is Auli experiencing a snowless winter?

Auli is experiencing a snowless winter due to weak western disturbances with limited moisture, a consequence of shifting weather patterns and global warming.

What is the impact of no snow on Auli's tourism?

The lack of snow has led to negligible tourist footfall, causing massive booking cancellations and severely impacting local businesses and resorts in Auli.

Are winter sports events like championships being cancelled in Auli?

Yes, major winter events, including the national skiing and snowboarding championships, are at risk of cancellation due to the ongoing snow shortage in Auli.

Home / Environment / Auli's Slopes Turn Brown: Snowless Winter Sparks Climate Fears

Auli's Slopes Turn Brown: Snowless Winter Sparks Climate Fears

22 Jan

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Summary

Auli, a popular skiing destination, is experiencing an unprecedented snowless winter.
This climate anomaly threatens major winter events and Auli's identity as a ski hub.
Local businesses report massive booking cancellations due to the lack of snowfall.

Auli's Slopes Turn Brown: Snowless Winter Sparks Climate Fears

Auli, a renowned skiing destination in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district, is experiencing a critically snowless winter, sparking urgent concerns about climate change's direct impact. Normally abundant snowfall has failed to materialize, leaving ski slopes bare and threatening the region's identity as a winter sports hub.

This lack of snow has resulted in minimal tourist arrivals and placed significant winter events, including national championships, at risk of cancellation. Officials express deep concern, noting this is the fourth championship likely to be canceled in five years. The situation underscores Auli's dependence on natural snowfall and its vulnerability to global warming.

Authorities are exploring alternative, higher-altitude locations like Gorson, approximately 3-4 km away at 3,050 meters. However, development there faces environmental and forest cover challenges. Meanwhile, local residents and tourism businesses are advocating for the revival of artificial snowmaking systems and ice skating rinks to mitigate the crisis.