Drass (Ladakh), Jan 07 (KNO): As intense cold tightened its grip over Ladakh, Drass—the world’s second coldest inhabited place—recorded a biting minimum temperature of minus 22 degrees Celsius, freezing water bodies and streams and marking the peak of the winter season in the Valley.
According to the details available with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) despite the harsh conditions, local residents, particularly the youth, are actively participating in winter sports carnival “Jashn-E-Fateh”, organized by the Indian Army.
The region has witnessed spells of snowfall in recent days, raising hopes for the upcoming Winter Games, including ice hockey and other snow-based events. However, residents noted that snowfall this season has been comparatively less and expressed hope for more snow to ensure smooth conduct of winter sports.
“Even in such extreme cold, these sports activities keep us motivated and engaged. We are thankful to the Army for giving youth a positive platform during the long winter,” a local youth told KNO.
An Army official said the initiative is part of sustained efforts to strengthen bonds with the local population. “Through Jashn-E-Fateh, we aim to encourage sportsmanship, resilience and civil-military harmony in this challenging terrain,” the official said.
The winter carnival is expected to further strengthen civil-military ties while showcasing the grit and enthusiasm of the people of Drass amid extreme climatic conditions—(KNO)