Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], January 1: Shimla’s century-old ice skating rink, a beloved winter destination, continues to attract locals and visitors on the first day of 2025. For many, the rink is not just a recreational venue but a cherished space that holds sentimental value during the winter months. However, the rink’s future is clouded by the effects of climate change, as shorter skating seasons are threatening the continuation of this iconic site’s legacy.
Arjun Kutiyala, a long-time member of the ice skating club, shared his concerns about the changing winter landscape. “A decade ago, we had over 100 skating sessions every winter. Now, due to global warming and shifting weather patterns, the number has decreased to just 50 to 55 sessions,” he explained.
This open-air rink, the only one of its kind in India, has been a central part of Shimla’s winter culture for over a century. The rink has hosted numerous competitions and attracted skaters from across the country, becoming a place where generations have learned the art of ice skating.
“The rink holds immense significance. It’s the only open-air facility of its kind in India, and during winter, it becomes a gathering place for children, young adults, and families,” said Kutiyala.
Despite the challenges posed by climate change, Kutiyala remains hopeful. He praised the government’s plan to transform the rink into a 24×7 indoor facility, a change he believes will safeguard the future of ice skating in Shimla.
Kutiyala emphasized the importance of Shimla in India’s ice skating history. “Shimla is where ice skating began in India. While places like Ladakh have emerged as popular skating destinations, Shimla is where it all started. Unfortunately, the reduced sessions are limiting local kids’ ability to advance in the sport,” he added.
Without sufficient opportunities for practice, local children are unable to reach their full potential in the sport. “We need to ensure that kids here get more chances to practice. Converting this rink into a 24×7 facility would give them the platform they need to excel,” Kutiyala said.
Aryabhatt, a young skater who has been coming to the rink for eight years, expressed his deep connection to the site. “Skating here every winter has been an incredible experience. This is the only rink that allows us to try different skating techniques and play ice hockey,” he said. He encouraged others to embrace physical activities such as skating. “Staying active is important, and ice skating is a great way to enjoy winter while keeping fit,” he added.
A young girl who has been skating for six years also voiced her concerns about the rink’s current condition. “Winter vacations are when we skate here, but the ice quality is not what it used to be. The sessions are shorter, and we hope the weather improves for better ice conditions,” she said. The rink also hosts competitions, and she hopes longer skating sessions, such as the Sunday races and hockey practice from 8 to 10 AM, can resume with improved ice quality.
The unpredictability of the weather has made it harder to hold long skating sessions, leaving skaters and the local community worried about the rink’s future. However, the rink continues to inspire hope and bring people together. As efforts to modernize the rink gather momentum, locals and skaters alike remain hopeful that Shimla’s historic ice skating tradition will endure and thrive, offering future generations the chance to glide on the ice and pursue their dreams.