MINGORA: The Swat Deputy Commissio­ner team was declared winner of the skiing gala at the 9,000-foot-high ski slope in Malam Jabba, which saw participation from over 30 national and international players.

The four-day skiing gala and snow festival concluded on Sunday, which was jointly organised by the Pakistan Army, district adminis­tration and Samson group.

The Civil Aviation Autho­rity team secured the second position, while Pakistan Police team came third.

Peshawar Corps Comman­der Lt Gen Shaheen Mazhar Mahmood was invited as the chief guest to the closing ceremony. Officials from the civil administration and army and a large number of tourists from across the country witnessed the competition.

The competition included slalom, giant slalom and free downhill races.

After distribution of prizes and trophies among the winners, Gen Mahmood congratulated the participating teams and said the natural beauty of Malam Jabba and Swat Valley was matchless and he was excited that peace was restored in the heavenly valley where tourists could admire its picturesque landscape.

“The scenic beauty of Swat surpasses Europe and the people are hospitable, peaceloving and patriotic. With the sacrifices of locals and security forces, durable peace has returned to the valley where international-level competitions are being held,” he said, adding that the era of development and prosperity had begun in the region.

He lauded the skiers’ performances and said that soon they would participate in international ski events.

Ski players said they were happy that they participated in the gala and showcased their performances in front of a large number of spectators.

“Our happiness knows no bounds for winning the 2019 ski gala championship. We will maintain our position by work hard,” said Noor Khan, the captain of the winning team.

Hundreds of tourists have also reached Malam Jabba to enjoy the skiing gala as well as snow in the picturesque valley.

The tourists said that Malam Jabba was worth a visit, and the government must open the valley for tourism by advertising it on an international level.

Pir Waris Shah, one of the organisers, said that the skiing event was polishing and promoting the ski talent of the country.

Published in Dawn, February 12th, 2019