(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer) Srinagar- As winter shifts to spring, the sight of blooming flowers usually indicates the arrival of warmer days. However, this year, some flowers have begun to bloom unusually early.
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This issue is raising concerns among scientists, environmentalists, and farmers. The early blooming, caused by rising temperatures, acts as both a symptom and a warning of the growing effects of climate change.
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The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) Centre in Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 15 degrees Celsius in mid-January, which is almost 8 degrees above normal.
“For the last several decades, temperatures have been increasing during the autumn and winter months,” said Professor Shakil Romshoo, renowned earth scientist and vice chancellor at Islamic University Of Science and Technology (IUST).
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“However, over the past four years, we have observed a significant rise in temperatures during these seasons. February, which used to be a cold month, has been notably warmer in the last three to four years. This year, starting from the third week of January, we are experiencing unusually warm conditions, with temperatures rising by 6 to 7 degrees Celsius. This is why we are seeing flowers bloom early in January.”
Romshoo highlighted that this trend is part of a larger issue related to climate change, which disrupts the natural blooming cycle.“Blooming typically occurs in March or April, but now it begins in February, which disrupts this cycle. Late snow or rain following early blooms can often damage the flowers, putting plants like cherry blossoms at a greater risk of being adversely affected by unpredictable weather patterns,” he explained.
The repercussions go beyond just flowers. Reduced snowfall during winter, a characteristic of Kashmir's climate, has significant effects on both tourism and agriculture.
As Romshoo stated,“We predicted this impact on winter tourism over 15 years ago. Addressing climate change requires global cooperation, but local actions are equally vital. Afforestation, improved public transportation, and a reduction in fossil fuel usage are essential steps to mitigate these impacts.”
Dr. Tariq Rasool, an Associate Professor of Plant Pathology at SKUAST Kashmir, has been researching the effects of rising winter temperatures on plant life for over 15 years.
He has observed that warmer winters are altering the growth patterns of apple trees and other crops.“For example, in apple trees, the first stage-called the 'green stage'-typically occurs in late March, followed by flowering in the first week of April. However, as temperatures rise, these stages can happen 10 to 15 days earlier,” Rasool explained.
Although early blooming has not yet caused significant damage to crops, extended warming could lead to greater issues.
“If temperatures drop in March or April, plant development will halt until conditions warm up again. However, prolonged hot weather could result in increased pest infestations and problems with fruit development,” he cautioned.
Rasool explained that pests and insects thrive in warmer conditions.
“High temperatures lead to increased dryness, which can severely affect trees. Farmers should use high-quality organic materials to retain soil moisture and consider innovative solutions for moisture conservation,” he suggested, emphasizing the importance of sustainable agricultural practices.
The changes are not limited to plants and insects. Mushtaq Pahalgami, a social activist and environmentalist, highlighted how rising temperatures are altering the nature of winter in Kashmir.“If we consider Pahalgam during the harsh winter season of Chillai Kalan, snow is now melting-something that was unimaginable in the past. Although we received some snowfall this year, it was not significant. This change is a result of the environmental imbalance caused by the increasing number of vehicles, air pollution, and water pollution,” he said.
Pahalgami expressed concern about the long-term consequences of early flowering, connecting it to a broader trend of environmental degradation.
“If flowers bloom in January or February, there is always a risk of snowfall in March. Snowfall during that time can destroy everything, further destabilizing our already fragile ecosystem,” he stated, citing examples of how neglecting the environment has led to disasters in other parts of India.
He stressed the importance of education and awareness regarding environmental issues.
“We need to implement a compulsory subject in schools and colleges that focuses on the environment of Kashmir. Those in influential positions should use their platforms to address these environmental concerns. If we don't act now, the consequences will first impact tourism and then agriculture,” Pahalgami warned.
The early blooming of flowers, although beautiful, serves as a stark reminder of our changing climate. Scientists, environmentalists, and citizens are urging immediate action to tackle this issue.
The need to address climate change has never been more urgent, requiring both global cooperation and local initiatives.
As Prof. Romshoo aptly said,“Our climate system is interconnected with global systems, illustrating that climate change is a global issue. However, implementing sustainable practices at the local level can significantly mitigate its impacts.”
The Meteorological Centre in Srinagar has reported the possibility of fresh spells of rain and snow starting from January 29th. Light rain and snow are expected at various locations from the night of January 29th to the 30th and onwards. Some middle and higher elevations may receive moderate snowfall.
The changing patterns in nature are not only symptoms of environmental imbalance but also a call to action for greater awareness, education, and collective efforts to preserve Kashmir's fragile ecosystem for future generations.
Immediate action is essential to mitigate the effects of climate change. Local initiatives, such as afforestation, improved public transportation, and sustainable agricultural practices, should be prioritised alongside global cooperation to tackle this crisis.
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