Kashmir, often called paradise on earth, is witnessing an alarming ecological decline. The loss of over six lakh forest trees, coupled with the rampant conversion of agricultural land into concrete jungles along the National Highway from Anantnag to Srinagar, and other routes like Srinagar to Sonamarg and Kupwara, is pushing the valley’s ecological balance into chaos. This unchecked development raises critical questions: Who is to blame, and who will halt this environmental devastation?
The blame lies with multiple stakeholders. Local authorities and builders often prioritize short-term economic gains over sustainable development, flouting environmental regulations. The absence of robust enforcement allows agricultural lands to be swallowed by commercial complexes and housing projects. Meanwhile, the public’s apathy and lack of awareness about long-term ecological consequences exacerbate the issue. The central government’s infrastructure push, while vital for connectivity, has inadvertently accelerated deforestation and land conversion without adequate safeguards.
Halting this crisis demands urgent action. The elected government in Jammu and Kashmir must take the lead by enacting stringent legislation to protect forests and agricultural lands. Zoning laws should restrict construction along highways and ecologically sensitive areas. Reforestation drives, coupled with community involvement, could restore lost green cover. The Forest Conservation Act and Environmental Impact Assessments must be rigorously enforced to ensure development projects align with ecological preservation.
The central government, too, has a pivotal role. It can impose stricter environmental laws tailored to Kashmir’s unique ecosystem, ensuring that infrastructure projects incorporate green technologies and compensatory afforestation. Collaboration with local bodies and environmental experts is essential to balance development and conservation.
Public awareness is equally critical. Grassroots movements, supported by NGOs and educational campaigns, can pressure authorities to prioritize sustainability. The ecological balance in Kashmir is not just a local issue but a national concern, as the valley’s biodiversity supports regional climate stability.
Time is running out. The elected government and central authorities must act decisively, blending strict legislation with sustainable practices, to save Kashmir from becoming a concrete wasteland. The paradise must not be lost to greed and neglect.
