SHEIKH-UL-ALAM, the 14th century Sufi saint from Kashmir famously said: ‘Ann poshi teli, yeli wann posh’ which means ‘food will thrive only till the woods survive’. This couldn’t be truer than it is in today’s context when Kashmir is facing the brunt of losing its forest cover and many other human follies.
Well, growing up, I always heard stories from my parents about how it would snow seven-eight feet even on plains when they were kids! The snow would reach up to windows and nobody would dare venture out. The electricity would be gone for weeks, if not months, and people would store food in drums made of clay and that they had store rooms built inside their houses to store coal for kangris (clay pots used in Kashmir to keep warm). This is something I could only fantasies about since it never happened when I was growing up but it still did snow a lot too. The snowfall would start mid-November and would end only by March end. The six months – October through March – would be ‘winter’ because it would be so cold, thanks to the snowfall followed by spells of rain. This would make sure that the waterbodies would be filled all through summer providing fresh water to people for daily needs as well for irrigation of agricultural lands.
And yes, while at this, I am reminded of the beautiful streams of Kashmir. I would often, during my childhood, visit my native village with my father. The village had endless streams flowing through the apple orchards and the paddy lands. I often saw women washing clothes, utensils and bathing their children in these streams. They would even fill earthen pots with the clean and fresh water for drinking.
But over the last few years, actually across the last decade, the snowfall and rains have drastically decreased. And even more particularly in the last two years. The weather pattern has undergone a radical shift – the summers have been too hot and the winters not as cold as earlier – which has led to the melting of glaciers and drying of water bodies. The streams that would flow through every village, have now dried up, partially or even fully, becoming dumping yards. The main water bodies – the lakes – have dried up noticeably too. This dramatic shift has given people and the government a lot to worry about.
The report ‘On the Brink?’ (2007) by Arjimand Hussain Talib presents an empirical and perception-based assessment of climate change impacts in Kashmir, with significant implications for ecological stability, agriculture and socio-economic well-being. Using Participatory Vulnerability Assessment (PVA) techniques, the report compiles data from 61 villages across eight districts, incorporating local testimonies and observations to complement limited scientific monitoring in the region.
Temperature and precipitation trends
The report identifies a marked temperature rise in Kashmir, with average increases of 1.45°C in the Valley and 2.32°C in the Jammu region over two decades. These changes are linked to erratic precipitation patterns, reduced snowfall, and seasonal shifts. The period of consistent snowfall has shortened from four months to merely one or two months, with greater unpredictability in both rainfall distribution and snowfall timing.
Glacial retreat
Substantial glacial retreat is recorded, with a 21% reduction in glacier surface area within the Chenab basin (962–2004). The disappearance of key glaciers, such as the Najwan Akal in Sindh Valley and Afarwat near Hajibal, underscores the severe ecological transformations underway. Accelerated glacial melt is contributing to Spring floods while reducing summer water availability, a dual threat to both human settlements and agriculture.
Water resource depletion
The study reveals that stream and river water levels have decreased by one-third to one-half over the past 40 years. In upland Karewas regions, groundwater levels have fallen by one-third. This trend has serious consequences for irrigation-dependent agriculture and has led to the conversion of paddy fields into less water-dependent orchards.
Agriculture and horticulture impacts
Food security in Kashmir is under strain, with a food grain production deficit rising from 23% (1980–81) to 40% (2005–06). The region also faces deficits of 30% in vegetable production and 69% in oilseed production. Large-scale conversion of irrigated land to rain-fed horticulture, while providing short-term economic gains, has exposed farmers to market vulnerabilities, especially under WTO trade liberalisation. Climatic fluctuations have also resulted in frequent crop diseases, frost damage, and reduced yields in staple crops and fruits.
Socio-economic consequences
The report emphasizes the rural socio-economic fallout from climate change. The fragmentation of land-holdings and unreliable water resources have rendered traditional agriculture increasingly unviable, leading to rural unemployment and out-migration. The growing import dependency for food, dairy, and meat (costing approximately Rs 16,000 crore annually) indicates both ecological and economic stress.
Since the publication of this report the conditions have worsened. Between December 2024 and February 2025, the Kashmir Valley experienced a significant 70% rainfall deficit, marking the most severe shortfall in the past eight years. During this period, only 50 mm of rainfall was recorded, a stark contrast to the normal precipitation levels.
This pronounced decrease in precipitation has raised concerns about water scarcity, with multiple springs and streams, including tributaries of the Jhelum river, drying up and causing shortages across the region. For instance, the ancient spring in Achabal, a source of drinking water for 20 villages, dried up for the first time in living memory.
The deficit has also adversely affected agriculture, as abnormally high temperatures have caused crops to become active earlier than usual, posing risks to the region’s horticulture sector. Additionally, the lack of snowfall led to the postponement of national winter games in Gulmarg, a popular tourist destination known for its ski terrain.
Impact of low rainfall
The Kashmir Valley is currently grappling with a severe water crisis, marked by a 70% rainfall deficit between December 2024 and February 2025 – the most significant shortfall in the past eight years. This prolonged dry spell has led to over two dozen forest fires in the last two months, particularly in areas like Tral, Udhampur, Reasi, and Poonch. Officials attribute these incidents to the lack of rainfall and strong winds, which have created highly flammable conditions.
The water scarcity has also severely impacted the region’s rivers and streams. The Jhelum, considered Kashmir’s lifeline, has seen significant reduction in water levels. At Sangam, the water level is -1.01 feet below the Reduced Level (RL) zero gauge, while Ram Munshi Bagh and Asham have recorded levels of 3.52 feet and 0.75 feet respectively. Tributaries such as Lidder, Rambiyara, Ferozpora, and Pohru are also flowing below normal levels.
This decline in water resources has led to a sharp decrease in hydropower generation. In January, the Power Development Department (PDD) generated approximately 250 megawatts (MW), but this figure has since dropped to just 190 MW – a reduction of 84.17%.
These developments underscore the urgent need for effective water management strategies and climate resilience measures to mitigate the adverse effects on agriculture, hydropower, and the overall sense of balance in resources and their utilisation.
The Kashmir Valley is experiencing a significant decline in the production of key crops such as apples and saffron, primarily due to adverse weather conditions and climate change.
The decline in apple production
In 2024, apple production in Kashmir decreased by approximately 30% for the second consecutive year. Farmers attribute this reduction to erratic weather patterns, including a dry, warm March followed by a wet, cool April and a prolonged dry spell. These conditions disrupted essential agricultural practices and led to disease outbreaks, further diminishing yields.
Challenges in saffron production
Saffron cultivation in Kashmir has also been severely affected. Production has plummeted from 8 metric tons in 2010-11 to 2.6 metric tons in 2023-24, largely due to rising temperatures and erratic rainfall. In response, some growers are experimenting with indoor farming techniques to mitigate the impact of climate change on this valuable crop
The Kashmir Valley’s agricultural sector is facing significant challenges due to prolonged dry conditions, leading to various adverse effects on fruit crops and orchards.
Damage to orchards
Extended periods of dryness have caused moisture stress in fruit-bearing trees, particularly apple orchards. Farmers report that the lack of rainfall has led to nutritional imbalances and increased vulnerability of trees to diseases. For instance, in South Kashmir’s Kulgam district, growers have observed heightened pest infestations and signs of nutrient deficiencies in their orchards.
Pest and disease outbreaks
Dry weather conditions have been linked to a rise in pest populations and disease outbreaks in orchards. The absence of adequate moisture weakens trees, making them more susceptible to infestations. Experts warn that snowless winters and prolonged dry spells can exacerbate these issues, necessitating vigilant monitoring and management by farmers.
Reduced quality and yield
Extreme temperatures and insufficient moisture negatively impact the quality and yield of various fruit crops, including apples, strawberries, cherries, apricots, and plums. High temperatures can limit vegetative growth and reduce fruit set, leading to smaller and less flavourful produce. Additionally, moisture deficiency during critical growth periods can result in reduced photosynthesis, further diminishing crop yields.
SCANNING THE CAUSES
So what is behind the drastic weather changes? The significant decline in both rainfall and snowfall, leading to concerns about water scarcity and environmental stability, is attributed to several interrelated factors:
Climate change and rising temperatures
Global warming has led to increased temperatures in the region, which affects precipitation patterns. Higher temperatures can alter atmospheric conditions, reducing the likelihood of snowfall and increasing the occurrence of rainfall instead. This shift not only diminishes snow accumulation but also accelerates the melting of existing snow and glaciers, impacting water availability.
Decline in western disturbances
Western Disturbances (WDs) are storms originating in the Mediterranean that bring rain and snow to the western Himalayas, including Kashmir. In the recent years, the frequency and intensity of these disturbances has decreased. Meteorologists attribute this decline to the weakening of mid-latitude jet streams, which are shifting north-wards due to global warming. This shift results in fewer and less intense WDs reaching the region, leading to reduced precipitation.
Environmental pollution in Kashmir is exacerbated by several government practices, including inadequate solid waste management, insufficient enforcement of environmental regulations, and the expansion of unsustainable industries like sand mining.
Inadequate solid waste management
Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, faces significant challenges in managing municipal solid waste. The city’s primary landfill site at Achan Saidpora is overburdened, emitting foul odours and posing health risks to nearby residents. Despite a 2017 directive from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to establish a waste-to-energy plant at this site, progress has been minimal. Environmental experts warn that without immediate intervention, Srinagar could face a severe waste crisis in the coming years
Insufficient enforcement of environmental regulations
The lack of stringent enforcement of environmental laws has led to the degradation of water bodies in the region. For instance, the Doodh Ganga river has been contaminated due to unregulated waste disposal and illegal sand mining activities. Despite legal frameworks like the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1974, violations persist, leading to penalties imposed by the NGT.
- Expansion of unsustainable industries
The unchecked growth of industries such as sand-mining has further strained Kashmir’s fragile ecosystem. Illegal mining practices, including excessive extraction beyond permissible depths and the use of heavy machinery, have disrupted aquatic habitats and altered river courses. This not only threatens biodiversity but also increases the vulnerability of local communities to natural disasters.
Emerging concerns: Microplastic pollution
Recent studies have highlighted the presence of microplastics in the Jhelum river, attributed to improper waste disposal practices. The accumulation of these particles poses risks to aquatic life and human health, underscoring the need for effective waste management strategies.
Addressing these environmental challenges requires a comprehensive approach, including the development of sustainable waste management systems, strict enforcement of environmental regulations, and the promotion of eco-friendly industrial practices. Engaging local communities and enhancing public awareness are also crucial steps toward preserving Kashmir’s ecological integrity.
Kashmir’s delicate environment faces multiple challenges that threaten its rich biodiversity and the well-being of its inhabitants.
The key issues include:
- Deforestation
The region’s forests are under severe threat due to illegal logging, agricultural expansion, and urban development. This deforestation leads to habitat loss for numerous plant and animal species, disrupting the ecological balance. Additionally, the removal of trees exacerbates soil erosion and increases the risk of landslides, particularly in mountainous areas.
- Water pollution
Kashmir’s water bodies are increasingly polluted by untreated sewage, agricultural runoff, and industrial waste. For instance, Dal Lake has experienced significant eutrophication due to nutrient inflow from various sources, leading to excessive weed growth and a decline in water quality.
- Climate change
The region is experiencing the adverse effects of climate change, including rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and more frequent, extreme weather events. These changes have led to water scarcity, as evidenced by the drying up of springs and reduced flow in rivers like the Jhelum. Such climatic shifts threaten agriculture, water security, and overall livelihoods in Kashmir.
- Urbanisation and population growth
Rapid urbanisation and a growing population have intensified environmental pressures in Kashmir. Unplanned development has resulted in the encroachment of wetlands and water bodies, reducing their capacity to act as natural buffers against floods. The expansion of urban areas has also led to increased waste generation and pollution, further straining the region’s natural resources.
Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that includes sustainable land-use planning, strict enforcement of environmental regulations, and active community participation. Implementing reforestation programmes, improving waste management systems, and promoting eco-friendly agricultural practices are essential steps toward preserving Kashmir’s environmental integrity.
Environmental degradation in Jammu and Kashmir is predominantly driven by human activities such as deforestation, vehicular pollution, and industrialisation, leading to pollution and biodiversity loss. Educating the public about environmental protection is crucial for restoring ecological balance.
- Vehicular pollution
Rapid urbanisation has led to an increase in vehicular emissions, deteriorating air quality. Approximately 10,000 residents die annually due to diseases linked to air pollution.
- Industrialisation
The rise in industrial activities has resulted in habitat destruction and environmental pollution. Potential lithium mining poses significant environmental challenges, necessitating a balance between development and conservation.
- Illegal dumping of garbage
The riverbeds, streams and forest area have become dumping yards for people. The waste from the households even the non-biodegradable waste and the waste that needs treatment is thrown openly into the water has also led to the major environmental crisis.
While nature operates within its inherent laws, human actions often deviate, leading to environmental degradation. Human activities have significantly altered the earth’s ecosystems. Practices such as deforestation, pollution and overexploitation of resources have led to climate change, soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and compromised air and water quality. These environmental challenges not only threaten the planet’s health but also impact human well-being, leading to issues like food insecurity and increased vulnerability to natural disasters.
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION INITIATIVES:
To combat these challenges, several educational programs have been implemented:
- Centre for Environment Education (CEE): CEE focusses on increasing awareness of environmental issues in the fragile ecosystems of the Indian Himalayan region.
- Environmental Education Programs: The Environment Education Program supplements classroom knowledge with Nature-based experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of environmental conservation.
- Department of Environmental Science at the University of Jammu: Established in 1995, this department offers M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs in Environmental Sciences, aiming to cultivate a scientific understanding of environmental issues.
Implementing comprehensive environmental education is vital for promoting sustainable practices and restoring ecological balance in Jammu and Kashmir.
Nature offers us countless benefits that enhance our well-being and happiness. As stewards of the earth, it is our responsibility to protect and preserve these natural gifts. We have an ethical duty to manage and care for the environment responsibly. This involves conservation efforts and sustainable practices to ensure the health of our ecosystems for future generations.
By embracing our role as environmental stewards, we can maintain the delicate balance of our planet and continue to enjoy the numerous benefits that Nature provides.
