by Hirra Azmat
SRINAGAR: To tackle the effects of climate change in the valley, the University of Kashmir has formed a working group of academicians, government officials and members of civil society.
The impacts of climate change include more extreme weather, natural disasters, chronic droughts, and economic instability.
Over the past few years, these changes have been felt more closely in Kashmir as it faced an early winter and prolonged dry spells.
Taking this consideration, the University of Kashmir has constituted a working group of 17 members under the chairmanship of Vice-Chancellor, University of Kashmir, Professor Talat Ahmad, who will work together to guide the focus and direction of climate change research in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh regions.
“The competent authority has authorized the constitution of the working group comprising the following members on climate change research for promoting climate change research and adaptation in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh regions,” the official notification issued by the University of Kashmir reads.
Vice-Chairman and member of the working group, Professor Shakeel Romshoo, KU said it will help in suggesting an effective strategy and knowledge about the likely impacts of climate change on various sectors in the UTs to the stakeholders.
“The sector-specific strategy offered by the group can minimize the adverse impacts of climate change on the economy and livelihoods. Further, it will help in identifying the available funding and collaborative opportunities at regional, national and international levels for promoting climate change research,” he said.
Romshoo said the group will conduct a meeting every three months.
“We have just formed the group. The other modalities will be discussed with time,” he said.
