M.Y. Tarigami Calls for Accountability and Climate Justice
SRINAGAR: M.Y. Tarigami, chairman of the Committee on Environment, is sounding the alarm after the recent cloudburst in Chisoti Padder caused severe loss of life and widespread destruction. This tragedy highlights how vulnerable Jammu and Kashmir’s Himalayan region is to extreme weather, such as flash floods and landslides. The incident serves as a reminder of the serious threats climate change poses to this delicate ecosystem.
Many areas impacted are home to shrines that attract thousands of visitors each year. Tarigami emphasizes the need for measures to protect lives and asks if any assessments have been conducted to prevent future cloudbursts. He is particularly concerned about the lack of action taken despite warnings from the Meteorological Department about severe rainfall and potential floods. “Why weren’t preventive measures implemented?” he questioned. “This negligence is unacceptable.”
In the face of disaster, Tarigami praised the local volunteers and community members who came together to help with rescue efforts, showcasing the strength of communal bonds during difficult times. However, he demands a thorough investigation into the incident, urging accountability for those responsible.
Tarigami pointed out a troubling trend of increasing extreme weather events across the region—from Pahalgam to Ladakh—that are straining infrastructure and livelihoods. He vividly described nature’s warning signs: “The hills mourn, the winds howl, the rivers weep—nature is screaming for justice.” Yet, he feels the authorities remain unresponsive.
Given J&K’s unique geography and challenges like melting glaciers and rampant deforestation, he called for several urgent actions:
- Community Involvement: Engage locals in climate policy-making. Collaboration among government departments, activists, and NGOs is crucial.
- Climate Compensation: Establish mechanisms for compensating affected communities to aid rehabilitation efforts.
- Ecological Restoration: Start initiatives to address deforestation and protect fragile ecosystems from exploitation.
- Improved Early Warning Systems: Implement advanced technologies for real-time weather alerts to keep communities informed.
Tarigami’s remarks resonate with a broader movement for climate justice. Recent data shows that environmental disasters have become more frequent globally. According to a recent study, climate-related events have increased by 50% over the last decade, highlighting an urgent need for action.
In conclusion, Tarigami urges everyone to unite against the forces that exploit nature. “This disaster should compel us to demand systemic change,” he said. “We must not be passive but active participants in seeking justice for our environment.” His message is a powerful call for collective responsibility and action in the face of climate change.
