Urgent Call to Action: EPG’s Public Advocacy Event Tackles Climate Change in J&K – Join the Movement!

Srinagar: Climate change has become a real and pressing issue in Jammu & Kashmir. It’s affecting our weather, crops, and health. This was the main topic at the workshop titled “Water, Weather, and Well-Being: Climate Change in the Kashmir Valley,” organized by the Environmental Policy Group (EPG) and The Institution of Engineers (India), Jammu & Kashmir State Centre.

Climate experts, policymakers, and community members gathered to discuss the environmental challenges in the region. They talked about unpredictable weather patterns, rising temperatures, and the impact these have on water security, agriculture, and public health.

Kashmir’s Climate Challenges

Professor Shakil Romshoo, Vice Chancellor of the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), addressed the urgent realities of climate change in Kashmir. He pointed out that even though the region produces very few greenhouse gases, it faces serious consequences from global climate changes.

“We’re seeing altered seasons, prolonged dry spells, and extreme weather events. These changes directly affect our crops, particularly saffron, which is declining in productivity,” Professor Romshoo explained. He highlighted that while global temperatures have risen by 0.8°C over the past century, Kashmir has experienced an even sharper rise of 1.3°C, stressing the need for urgent global climate action.

EPG’s Faiz Bakshi opened the event by reaffirming the group’s commitment to protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development. He discussed ongoing efforts, like addressing the aftermath of the 2014 floods and tackling waste management issues in the region.

“Even with court orders, action is slow due to inadequate commitment from officials. However, the National Green Tribunal’s increased fines are offering hope for better enforcement,” Bakshi noted.

Arjumand Hussain, founder of Ziraat Times and an International Development Specialist, shared concerning predictions regarding food security in Jammu & Kashmir.

“If climate change continues unchecked, J&K could face food deficiencies of up to 60%. We need to act now,” he warned. He suggested implementing an Environmental Cess to fund climate adaptation efforts in the region.

“A tax on high-polluting sectors could generate around ₹1,000 crore each year for a Climate Change Fund. This money could support reforestation, green projects, and conservation efforts,” he proposed.

He also raised concerns about the weakening of environmental assessments for large projects, indicating a lack of transparency in evaluating their impacts.

Dr. Khurshid Iqbal, a former cardiology head at SKIMS, expressed worries about the growing health risks tied to climate change.

“There’s a rise in respiratory problems, particularly among vulnerable groups, due to poor air quality from dust and pollution,” he explained, emphasizing the need for stronger health measures to combat these climate-related issues.

Environmental activist Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat voiced serious concerns about water security in Kashmir.

“By 2030, we could face a serious shortage of clean drinking water. Our reliance on bottled water is unsustainable,” he warned, urging action against pollution and illegal mining to prevent further deterioration of local living conditions.

Scientist Maajid Farooq provided data-driven insights into climate changes occurring in J&K, stressing the impact on traditional farming practices.

“We’re not just experiencing temperature changes; there’s a significant shift in rainfall patterns as well. Policymakers must help farmers adapt to these changes,” he said.

Dr. GN Qasba, a former municipal commissioner, called for urgent urban planning reforms to help the region cope with climate challenges. Altaf Ahmad Andrabi, a former agriculture director, advocated for community-based strategies that promote resilience in farming.

“To truly address climate change, we need to work directly with farmers and introduce diverse, climate-resistant crops,” he suggested.

The discussion wrapped up with a Q&A session, encouraging participant engagement. The EPG plans to compile a report on the workshop findings, which will be submitted to the government to aid in climate adaptation planning.