As the prolonged drought maintains its hold on the scenic vistas of Kashmir, a looming water crisis threatens the very essence of life for its residents. The intricate balance between nature’s offerings and human reliance is unraveling, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the region. The plight of Cherhard in Kokernag, where blue plastic drums symbolize a desperate need for water, paints a stark picture of the challenges faced by ordinary families. The once-free water supply, reduced due to the prolonged dry spell, has left households and livestock dependent on meager weekly refills. The proposed water supply scheme under the Jal Jeevan Mission faces hurdles, revealing the complex interplay between climate change and infrastructure development.
Farmers, the backbone of Kashmir’s agrarian landscape, stand on the brink of adversity. The absence of snow and rainfall during December and January raises fears of a grim agricultural season. With the water-intensive paddy crop requiring irrigation from late April to mid-August, the erratic weather patterns make it increasingly challenging for farmers to plan their agricultural activities.
The impact of the dry spell extends beyond the agricultural sector, affecting businesses reliant on tourist inflow, already hit by a snowless December and January. Hydroelectric projects, vital for power generation in the region, witness a 70% reduction in efficiency due to the dry spell. This not only jeopardizes the energy supply but also places an additional burden on the common man, who must contend with erratic power supply and potential curtailments during the mid and late summer seasons.
The melting of glaciers, highlighted by environmental experts, unveils a disturbing reality. With almost all of Kashmir’s 3,642 glaciers melting rapidly due to rising temperatures, the consequences are far-reaching. Glacial recession threatens river water discharge, impacting agriculture, dam refilling, and hydropower output. In his book “Water Polity and Kashmir,” Rao Farman Ali sheds light on the alarming pace at which glaciers are disappearing, noting that one or two glaciers have already vanished. This phenomenon extends beyond Kashmir, observable across the Himalayan belt and the Pamir mountain range.
Climate change is not merely a distant concern; it is unfolding in real-time, affecting the lives of Kashmiris. The United Nations Secretary-General’s acknowledgment of Nepal’s staggering ice loss serves as a sobering reminder of the broader regional impact. Jammu and Kashmir’s meteorological data paints a grim picture, with rainfall deficits of 79% and 91% in December 2023 and January 2024, respectively. Faizan Arif, an independent weather forecaster, warns that day temperatures are likely to stay several degrees above normal in the coming days.
In the face of such challenges, the need for immediate action is evident. Sustainable water management practices, alternative water sources, and resilient agricultural strategies must take center stage. The involvement of local bodies, despite the disruptions caused by political changes and the pandemic, becomes paramount. The focus on rain harvesting, water conservation, and identifying unused wells for groundwater recharge are steps in the right direction.
As the panchayats adeptly navigate post-2018 challenges, they not only emerge as crucial actors in resolving water disputes within the farming community but also witness an enhanced role following the abrogation of Article 370. Their pivotal involvement in planning and proposal formulation, especially in the absence of elected representatives, underscores the significance of local governance in times of crisis. Advocate Farooq Ahmad Ganie, a former sarpanch, highlights the critical role of panchayats in resolving disputes, particularly water-related ones, within the farming community. Despite acknowledging the challenges faced by these institutions, including operational disruptions after the abrogation of Article 370 in late 2019 and the subsequent two years dominated by the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a recognition that the role of panchayats has improved after this period.
In the context of the dry spell, the Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Department has given special focus to rain harvesting and water conservation efforts in Anantnag district. “Consequently, works related to water harvesting tanks, check dams, renovation of ponds, springs, irrigation channels, and other traditional water bodies have been incorporated in the panchayat level plans,” states Reyaz Ahmad, Assistant Commissioner Development, Anantnag. Field functionaries have been advised to identify unused wells, so that groundwater recharge works can be taken up to augment the groundwater table.
Kokernag Sub-divisional Magistrate Suhail Ahmad stresses the importance of sustainable practices to ensure judicious use of resources in overcoming the crisis. Administrative orders have been issued to address the water scarcity issue, reflecting a recognition of the need for immediate action.
In view of the dry spell, sustainable practices and long-term planning become imperative. Ganie suggests that all proposed plans should be scrutinized with an eye on the next 30 years, ensuring sustainable development and safeguarding of water bodies for a better tomorrow.
The consequences of the water crisis in Kashmir extend beyond immediate challenges. Winter droughts may cause water stress, increased fire risk, soil erosion, and heightened disease and pest susceptibility in forests and agriculture. Both dry weather and heat disrupt natural cycles, plant-pollinator interactions, and affect crop growth and productivity. An overall decline in biodiversity, social and economic strain, and displacement among communities could become noticeable.
In conclusion, Kashmir’s water crisis demands a collective and comprehensive response. From the highest peaks of the Himalayas to the rolling valleys of Anantnag, the urgency to act is palpable. Whether it is adapting agricultural practices, enhancing water management, or fostering resilient communities, the time to safeguard Kashmir’s water resources is now. The road ahead may be challenging, but with concerted efforts, we can pave the way for a sustainable and secure future for the paradise on earth.
