Shrinking Snow Cover and Its Implications for Ski in Gulmarg: A Case Study of International Athletes

Abstract

Snow cover is a critical resource for ski athletes, particularly in Gulmarg, India, where climate change has resulted in significant reductions in snow cover extent. This study investigates the socio-economic and psychological impacts of snow cover depletion on international-level ski athletes from 2004-2024. This study employs the Sport Ecology Framework and the Geospatial and Socio-Environmental Systems Framework to explore the interplay between environmental changes, sports performance, and mental well-being. Using Landsat data the Normalized Difference Snow Index (NDSI) has been calculated in ArcMap 10.1 and correlated with the socio-psychological and economic challenges athletes face through thematically analysed qualitative interviews. Key findings of the study reveal a measurable 14.82% reduction in snow-covered areas, leading to a shortened ski season. Psychological challenges such as demotivation and frustration were observed, alongside heightened financial strain as athletes often resorted to crowdfunding or personal savings to cover training costs due to travel for training to European countries. The findings emphasize the need for targeted policy interventions, including enhanced snow sports infrastructure, improved government support for winter sports, and the use of artificial snowmaking technology. The study underscores the urgency for adaptive strategies, such as indoor ski training facilities and diversified funding models, to ensure the sustainability of competitive skiing in Gulmarg. The research significantly contributes to understanding snow cover depletion in Gulmarg due to climate change impacts on winter sports in general and Ski Athletes in particular, offering practical implications for policymakers, sports authorities, and stakeholders in the skiing industry. It highlights the necessity for comprehensive strategies to support athletes while addressing climate-induced challenges in snow-dependent sports. The study is limited to a specific geographic region and a small sample size, which may affect the generalizability of the findings. Further research is recommended to assess long-term impacts and explore cross-regional comparisons to strengthen policy frameworks for winter sports sustainability.