Opinion | Our Environmental Challenges

Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive solutions that balance environmental conservation with economic development

I have witnessed the environmental shifts in Jammu and Kashmir with growing concern, and it’s disheartening to see the valley , once pristine and untouched, now grappling with challenges that were unimaginable just a few decades ago. The environmental fabric of this delicate valley is under strain, with issues like soil erosion and deforestation worsening. The once-glorious Dal Lake, a symbol of the region’s beauty, is now struggling to survive as it shrinks and becomes increasingly polluted. This isn’t just about one lake; it’s a sign of the broader ecological imbalance and loss of biodiversity that we are facing. The looming threat of climate change is amplifying these problems, and it’s clear that our future is at stake.
In particular, the shifting patterns of western disturbances—crucial to our weather—are deeply troubling. These changes are impacting everything from our water resources to agriculture and horticulture, the very backbone of our local economy. Rising temperatures are altering crop cycles and yields, creating new challenges for farmers and leaving our economy vulnerable. As I reflect on the environmental issues we face in Jammu and Kashmir, it becomes clear that we need a comprehensive strategy. This is not just about identifying the problems but about exploring actionable solutions that can help secure a better future.
The impacts of climate change in our valley are already visible. Over the past 37 years, studies have shown that average temperatures have risen by 0.8°C. High-altitude areas like Pahalgam and Gulmarg have witnessed even sharper increases. The repercussions are wide-ranging. Our rainfall patterns have shifted dramatically, with an 80% deficit in December and a 100% shortfall in January. This has led to dry winters, drying up springs, shrinking water bodies, and reducing hydroelectric power generation. The situation is exacerbated by the decline in Western Disturbances, which have decreased by 43% in recent years. Less snowfall and more rainfall are leading to faster glacial melt—our glaciers have already shrunk by 25% in the last six decades, and projections suggest they could decrease by as much as 85% by the end of the century.

One of the most concerning impacts is the drying up of our springs, which are a vital source of drinking water. The famous Verinag spring, which feeds the Jhelum River, is now showing alarming signs of depletion. The water level has dropped so much that the once-hidden green layer at its bottom is now visible. As climate change reduces precipitation and increases evaporation rates, stream flows are declining, and water tables are falling. Springs across Kashmir are receding, causing water shortages in many villages. People are being forced to rely on unsafe water sources, and traditional agricultural practices are being disrupted. This not only threatens our water security but also our biodiversity.
The agricultural landscape of Jammu and Kashmir is also under pressure. In just over a decade, we have lost 33,309 hectares of paddy fields to construction, leaving only 129,000 hectares from the 162,309 hectares we had in 2012. This rapid conversion has serious implications for our food security, with the current 40% food grain deficit expected to rise to 60% in the next decade. The shift from traditional farming to horticulture, particularly apple orchards, is driven by better returns and lower water requirements. However, this comes with risks. The influx of foreign fruits into Indian markets could reduce demand for our produce, while climate change threatens to reduce crop yields. For instance, a 1°C temperature increase in 2010 led to a decline in Gross Primary Productivity, which is a measure of agricultural output.
These environmental challenges in Jammu and Kashmir are a call to action. We are at a crossroads. The rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, retreating glaciers, and drying springs are not just threats—they are realities we must confront. The conversion of fertile rice fields into construction sites adds another layer of concern, especially regarding our future food security. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive solutions that balance environmental conservation with economic development. We need to adopt sustainable farming practices, invest in water-saving technologies, and explore renewable energy options. Equally important is raising awareness among our people about the effects of climate change and empowering them to take proactive measures. By coming together, we can mitigate the impact of these changes and create a resilient future for Jammu and Kashmir.
Author is associated with a Kashmir based literary Organization & can be reached at aalimbhat72@gmail.com