by Jahangir Sofi
SRINAGAR: Kashmir is experiencing a prolonged dry spell severely impacting agriculture and water supply. The lack of rainfall has led to significant challenges for farmers and the wider community, raising concerns about crop yields and water availability.
The declining water levels in the Jhelum River have notably affected irrigation. The Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC) department reports that water capacity has reduced by 30%, impacting 10% of irrigation schemes. This reduction threatens crops, especially paddy and vegetables, which rely heavily on a consistent water supply.
Choudhary Mohammad Iqbal, Director of Agriculture Kashmir, while speaking to Kashmir Life highlighted that while ground moisture is currently sufficient, the absence of rain in the coming weeks could negatively affect crops.
He said prolonged dry conditions have already caused plant stress, resulting in stunted growth and drying leaves.
Prof Dr Raihana from Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) Kashmir explained that the dry spell and high temperatures have led to burned tips in paddy crops and desiccated vegetable leaves, threatening overall yields.
Meanwhile, farmers across the region are witnessing their fields drying up, with many sharing their distress through social media. The drying riverbed of the Jhelum in Srinagar, where 40%, as per the IFC officials, the river has shown visible surface patches, is a stark indicator of the severity of the situation.
The prolonged dry conditions have also affected the potable water supply across the valley. The Jal Shakti Department reports a 15-20 percent reduction in water supply. Chief Engineer Er Vivek Kohli highlights the increased demand and decreased supply, particularly in plain areas where spring discharges have diminished.
He said that to address the crisis, an emergency water supply plan has been activated.
“The department has mobilized water tankers and empowered officers to hire additional resources if necessary. Residents are urged to use water judiciously, avoiding non-essential uses such as watering lawns and washing vehicles”, he said.
Meanwhile, meteorological officials predict dry weather to continue until at least July 26, with no significant changes expected for the rest of the month.
The hot and dry conditions are challenging the livelihoods of many and pressuring the agricultural economy.
