Development of a $300 million ski resort in India’s Himachal Pradesh region could lead to the country, which will host the 2010 Winter Commonwealth Games at Delhi and plans to use its current leading resort of Gulmarg for some events, putting in a bid to a host a future Winter Olympics.

The Himalayan Ski Village (HSV) resort planned by American billionaire Alfred Ford’s and his long term friend John Sims aims to be up and running by the winter of 2008-9, employing some 3,000 people directly and thousands more in the supply chain. The HSV board also includes Indian and other investors. Along with being a world class ski resort the Himalayan Ski Village will promote ecologically sustainable practices and organic farming.

HSV will cover 100 hectares and offer top-end hotel and condominium accommodation as well as shops, restaurants and a luxurious spa. There will also be a 2,000-capacity convention centre, a handicrafts market to showcase the work of local artisans and a theatre complex.

“We are currently undergoing an arduous self-imposed design process to ensure we adopt international best practices in areas like ecological conservation, energy use and waste management before we sign the final Implementation Agreement with the state government,” Mr Sims told local media. He first saw the potential of the site eight years ago when trekking
in the area.

“Plastics will be kept out of the system by compacting. Sewage will be treated in a state-of-the-art disposal plant. There will be total recycling of water to ensure zero waste, with the treated water being used for gardening. The solid waste will be converted to sludge and also used for gardening,” said Mr Sims explained.