SRINAGAR: Snowless winters over the past five years have brought Kashmir’s water resources to a critical point, according to Prof. Shakeel Romshoo, Vice-Chancellor of the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) and renowned earth scientist.
Prof. Romshoo highlighted the region’s steady decline in snowfall, especially during peak winter months. “Snowfall is the primary source of water for Kashmir. With little to no snow, rivers, tributaries, and streams are drying up, which could severely impact the tourism sector, horticulture, and food security,” he warned.
Addressing the drying of the Achabal stream, Prof. Romshoo attributed the issue to shallow mountain origins and diminished snow accumulation. “Dry winters over recent years are the main reason streams like Achabal are disappearing,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir government has sought assistance from the Geological Survey of India (GSI) to investigate the drying Achabal stream. Sources revealed that the Chief Secretary has instructed the General Administration Department to request a team of GSI experts to assess the situation and recommend solutions.
The Achabal waterfall, a key local water source, has completely dried up, leaving communities grappling with water shortages. Reports indicate that 65% of the region’s water sources are severely depleted, creating near-drought conditions.
Environmental experts blame climate change and global warming for the rapid depletion of Kashmir’s water bodies, including the Jhelum River, which has recorded its lowest water levels in decades. Groundwater reserves and other streams are also drying up.
Javaid Khursheed, a research scholar in environmental sciences, called for a comprehensive water management policy. “We need structured regulation for water release and conservation, especially for rivers like the Jhelum and Chenab,” he said.
Khursheed further stressed the importance of preserving wetlands and lakes to combat climate change’s impacts. “Pollution in riverbeds must be addressed at every level. Sustained conservation efforts are vital to ensuring the survival of Kashmir’s water bodies,” he added. (KNO)
