Ice hockey and fireworks ignite frozen G-B

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HUNZA:

The 'Seven-Days Frozen Fairy-tale Winter Feast, 2025,' is sweeping across Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) with a dazzling display of sports, culture, and community spirit, as residents turn out in droves, braving the chill with the warmth of their enthusiastic support for their favourite teams.

The G-B Tourism Department, in collaboration with local sponsors, is hosting the event, creating an atmosphere buzzing with excitement. The inaugural ceremony brought buoyancy to the town of Skardu, which has been marred by prolonged power cuts.

On the second day, the festival enchanted both locals and visitors alike with an electrifying ice hockey competition in Hunza - the star attraction of the event. In all 10 teams from across the region are competing on the rink in Murtazabad.

The tournament defied a harsh winter in the region. Its opening was delayed because of fluctuating temperatures on the inaugural day. However, the games kicked off late in the night amid the temperatures plummeting to as low as -15°Celsius.

On the opening day, Al-Murtazabad Sports Club, Hunza defeated Skardu; Nagar triumphed over Astore, Ghizer bested Diamer, and Ghulkin Winter Club won against Karimabad Hunza. More matches will be held on Saturday with the grand finale set for Sunday.

Local officials as well as politicians have hailed the event as a major step to tourism. "Gilgit-Baltistan has untapped potential for both winter and summer tourism, and these events allow us to showcase our rich culture and stunning landscapes," Tourism Secretary Zameer Abbas told The Express Tribune.

Special Assistant to G-B Chief Minister Eiman Shah, praised the event's role in providing positive opportunities for youth. "Such activities not only promote sports but also serve as a constructive platform for our young generation," Shah added.