In September 2025, Srinagar and its surrounding areas, including Anantnag, are grappling with a recurring nightmare. The catastrophic floods of 2014, which devastated Jammu and Kashmir, have returned, laying bare the dangerous consequences of unchecked encroachment. The 2014 deluge submerged homes, businesses, and dreams, temporarily deterring development near riverbanks. Yet, as memories faded, so did restraint. Encroachment on the Jhelum River’s banks resumed, setting the stage for today’s tragedy, with floodwaters once again claiming what we failed to protect.
The Jhelum, Srinagar’s lifeline, is suffocating under illegal constructions and unchecked development. Environmentalists’ warnings and the lessons of 2014 were ignored as residential and commercial structures proliferated along the river, constricting its flow and heightening flood risks. This crisis exposes a harsh reality: the government is not solely responsible. While authorities must enforce robust regulations and bolster flood management systems, citizens are equally accountable for the choices that exacerbate these disasters.
Encroachment reflects a lack of civic discipline and foresight. Driven by short-term gains, communities have disregarded nature’s boundaries, building on vulnerable floodplains. This must change. Civic responsibility demands that residents resist encroaching on riverbanks and prioritize long-term safety. Grassroots campaigns and public awareness can cultivate accountability, while communities should advocate for transparent urban planning and policies that champion sustainable development over reckless expansion.
The 2025 floods are a wake-up call, exposing how encroachment fuels destruction. Nature does not spare those who forget its power. If we fail to act, this cycle of devastation will persist. Let this crisis be a turning point. Governments must implement stringent land-use laws to curb illegal construction, but citizens must also step up as stewards of the environment. By respecting the Jhelum and embracing responsible planning, we can break free from the mistakes of the past. Collective action to halt encroachment is not just necessary—it is urgent. Only through shared responsibility can we ensure Srinagar’s future remains above water.
