Essential Alert: What You Need to Know from Greater Kashmir

Kashmir is feeling the heat, and not just from the sun. The valley is facing record-high temperatures that are impacting everyday life. Just recently, a scorching 37.4 degrees Celsius was recorded, the third hottest July day in over 70 years. Before this, the hottest July day was 38.3 degrees in 1946. This June was the hottest since 1978, and the trend shows no sign of slowing down.

The rise in temperatures, about 6 degrees Celsius, is alarming. A long dry spell has cut rainfall by 50%. The Jhelum River, vital for the region, is almost dry, hitting lows not seen in five years. On July 2, its water level was just 0.19 feet at Sangam in Anantnag district.

For the past several years, climate change has been evident in Kashmir. Normally a region known for its glaciers, forests, and beauty, Kashmir is now facing water shortages. In February, a famous spring in Achabal dried up entirely for the first time in history. This was due to a lack of rainfall and snowfall.

The situation isn’t just local. Recent reports show that Europe is experiencing its second warmest summer since 1884. Rising heat has stressed power systems and contributed to power price spikes. Sadly, heatwaves have also led to loss of life and sparked forest fires.

According to the United Nations Environment Programme, the world is in a serious climate crisis. Without significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, global temperatures could rise dramatically this century, threatening all life on Earth.

Kashmir’s rising temperatures are more than a temporary issue; they signal deeper problems. In the past 30 years, environmental degradation has increased due to reckless development. Trees have been cut down, rivers filled in, and the ecosystem damaged by construction. Once a peaceful retreat for British vacationers, Kashmir is now grappling with environmental collapse.

Environmental activist MM Shuja voiced concern, noting, “It’s shocking to see Delhi and Rajasthan cooler than Kashmir.” Shuja has tried raising awareness about these pressing issues but feels the authorities haven’t taken enough action.

Glaciers in Kashmir are also suffering. Droughts are accelerating their retreat. Kolahoi, the largest glacier, is melting quickly, while others, like Thajiwas and Hoksar, are experiencing rapid shrinkage. These changes create glacial lakes, which could lead to disastrous situations.

Jammu and Kashmir is among the Himalayan regions most affected by climate change. Studies predict that from the mid-21st century onward, Kashmir will face more frequent and severe droughts, altering weather patterns drastically.

Local communities feel the effects of this volatility. After heavy rain, lengthy dry periods can lead to flooding. Kashmir is experiencing extreme weather that threatens its fragile ecosystem.

The future looks uncertain. If we continue on this path, future generations may struggle to access food, energy, and water. The changes in snowfall and rising temperatures pose significant risks, including early snowmelt and glacier loss.

On a positive note, efforts are underway for ecological preservation. Muhammad Yousuf Tarigami, a member of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, emphasizes that development should not harm the environment. This mindset is crucial for saving Kashmir.

To combat climate change, we need actionable steps. Awareness programs can help reduce carbon emissions. A unified movement is essential to protect our natural resources. Our future and that of generations to come depends on our collective action.

For more information on climate crises and their potential impacts, see the United Nations Environment Programme here.

Source link