Kashmir's Water Crisis: What Lies Ahead?

(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer)
KO file photo by Abid Bhat

By Zubair Lone

Srinagar: Kashmir's water crisis is no longer a looming threat-it is happening now. With the region facing prolonged dry spells and experts warning of increasingly erratic weather patterns, the situation grows more uncertain by the day.

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A senior meteorologist from Srinagar warned,“The land is so dry now that even if we get rain, it might come in sudden heavy showers, leading to floods. Or we might face even longer dry spells. The climate is changing faster than we expected.”

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Even though some areas of Kashmir, like Dodhpathri and Sonamarg, got fresh snowfall and the plains experienced rain, which ended a long dry period, experts don't think this will significantly help the water shortage problem.

“While this system might reduce the current precipitation deficit from over 80% to around 70%, it won't be nearly sufficient,” Faizan Arif, an Independent weatherman said.

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“What we truly need is a Mega Western Disturbance to turn things around. Thankfully, there are indications of multiple, potentially strong, Western Disturbances between February 25th and March 1st,” Faizan added.

According to him, if the deficit doesn't drop below 40% water shortages – especially for irrigation – will likely hit agriculture and horticulture sectors hard.

For the past four years, environmental observers have warned of a worrying trend in Kashmir-declining winter precipitation. Now, as the valley faces its sixth consecutive year of reduced snowfall and rainfall, concerns are mounting over the long-term survival of its rivers, glaciers, and water sources.

“This is a catastrophic situation,” Faizan noted.“How will our rivers survive if glaciers don't receive the snowfall they need?”

The crisis is not just about the present dry spell but a broader pattern that could continue for years, he said.

Even if late February and March bring rain and snow, experts warn that it won't be enough to reverse the damage already done. The fear is that this trend could extend into a seventh, eighth, or even tenth straight year, pushing Kashmir's water resources to a breaking point.

“While technological advancements have transformed infrastructure with better internet networks, bridges, railways, and airports, the reality remains stark-once water is lost, it cannot be brought back. No technology can generate water to replenish our rivers,” the expert stressed.

As farmers struggle with drying fields and residents face increasing water shortages, calls for immediate action grow louder. The demand is clear-Kashmir's leadership must urgently address this crisis, formulate long-term water conservation strategies, and adapt to the rapidly changing climate before the damage becomes irreversible.

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