Shandur Polo Festival: Players, spectators dismayed at postponement

CHITRAL: The postponement of Shandur festival as the eleventh hour has drawn ire from the polo players and spectators belonging to both Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan.

The mega event was scheduled to start at the world’s highest polo ground from June 28 to 30 but the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government postponed it on Tuesday, citing inclement weather.“It is sincerely regretted to inform the general public that Shandur Polo Festival, scheduled from June 28 to June 30, 2024 is hereby postponed, due to inclement weather conditions till further orders in the best public interest,” said a notification issued by the secretary to government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture, Tourism, Archaeology and Museums Department.

The decision to postpone the annual event at the eleventh hour has triggered concern among the polo players and spectators in Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan.“The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government should have announced the date for the event keeping in view all aspects, including weather conditions. The shifting of the horses to Shandur was one of the most difficult tasks which was completed by the players on their own,” said Moezuddin Behram, the general secretary of Polo Association Chitral.

The administration of Ghizer district in Gilgit-Baltistan has also lodged its protest over the abrupt postponement of the event.“I am writing to express extreme disappointment and concern over the unilateral decision to postpone the Shandur Polo Event. This event is a cornerstone of our cultural heritage and a symbol of our friendship and cooperation.

The Tourism Department KP has postponed the Shandur mela due to weather conditions. However, it is astonishing that the Tourism Department KP has taken this decision without consultation,” said the deputy commissioner of Ghizer district in a letter.