The last time the planet warmed this much 88% life disappeared: Robert Devoy
Kashmir, often called “Paradise on Earth,” is known for its stunning landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and lush valleys. However, this paradise is facing a growing threat from climate change. Rising temperatures, erratic weather patterns, and shrinking glaciers are affecting the region’s fragile ecosystem and the lives of the people. In this article, we will explore how climate change is impacting life in this part of world and why the rapid recession of glaciers is a warning we cannot ignore.
Kashmir isn’t immune to the climate change; Kashmir is not immune to the global phenomenon of climate change. The region, which traditionally experienced well-defined seasons, is now experiencing unpredictable weather patterns. Winters are shorter, snowfall is inconsistent, and summers are warmer than ever before. These changes are not just altering the region’s natural beauty but also threatening its water resources, agriculture, and local livelihoods.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has already warned that Himalayan glaciers, including those in Kashmir, are shrinking at an alarming rate. These glaciers are a lifeline for Kashmir, providing fresh waters for survival in different ways. As the glaciers recede, the region’s water supply is insecure, directly impacting both the environment and the people.
The most visible impact of climate change in Kashmir is the rapid recession of glaciers. The Kashmir Valley is home to many glaciers, including the Kolahoi Glacier, which has been shrinking drastically. According to studies, the Kolahoi Glacier has reduced by over 23% in the last few decades; the research from The Energy and Resource Institute (TERI) suggests that it is receding three meters a year. This glacier, often referred to as the “lifeline of Kashmir,” is critical for the Jhelum River and the entire ecosystem.
Similarly, the Thajiwas Glacier, a popular tourist destination near Sonamarg, is also receding. Visitors can see how much smaller the glacier has become compared to a few decades ago. The receding glaciers not only sign to loss of Kashmir’s natural beauty but also serve as a stark warning of a water crisis looming over the region.
Glacier-fed rivers are the primary source of fresh water in Kashmir. As glaciers melt at an accelerated rate, the water supply becomes less predictable. Initially, rapid melting may lead to an overflow of rivers, increasing the risk of floods during the monsoon season, as seen during the devastating floods of 2014 in Kashmir. However, over the time, as glaciers shrink further, these rivers may dry up during the crucial summer months, leading to water scarcity in most parts of the valley.
Kashmir’s agriculture, which forms the backbone of its economy, is heavily dependent on these rivers. Agriculture and Horticulture activities require a stable and reliable water supply. Any disruption caused by the changing climate and receding glaciers threatens to upend local farming practices. Farmers are already reporting erratic weather patterns affecting crop yields, with heavier rainfalls damaging crops and warmer winters affecting the chilling requirements of crops.
Kashmir’s unique biodiversity is also under threat from climate change. As temperatures rise and glaciers recede, many species that depend on cold habitats are facing habitat loss. Alpine meadows, home to rare flora and fauna, are shrinking, and several species are being forced to migrate to higher altitudes to find suitable conditions for survival.
The famous Himalayan brown bear and snow leopard, which inhabit Kashmir’s high-altitude regions, are particularly vulnerable. Changes in the ecosystem could lead to food shortages for these animals, putting their survival at risk.
Tourism is one of the mainstays of Kashmir’s economy, but climate change is posing a new challenge to the industry. The region is famous for winter sports like Snow skiing in Gulmarg and the breathtaking beauty of Pahalgam and Sonamarg. However, the changing climate is threatening these attractions too.
Warmer winters mean less snowfall, affecting resorts especially meant for winter tourism activities and reducing the number of tourists visiting for winter activities. Glaciers, which are a major draw for tourists, are shrinking, and their scenic beauty is being lost. This decline in natural attractions could have long-term economic consequences for the region, which heavily relies on tourism.
Addressing the impact of climate change in Kashmir requires both immediate and long-term actions. The government, local communities, and individuals must come together to mitigate these effects and adapt to the changing environment.
1. Conservation of Glaciers: Implementing glacier conservation programs, such as artificial glacier creation and limiting human activities in glacier-sensitive areas, is crucial. Moreover prohibiting the tourist vehicular movement near the glacial regions will help to reduce the carbon footprint in these areas. Educating locals and tourists about the importance of preserving these glaciers should be a priority.
2. Sustainable Agriculture: Farmers need to adopt water-efficient practices, such as drip irrigation, and shift towards crops that are more resilient to changing weather patterns. The use of organic farming and agroforestry techniques can help sustain agricultural productivity while conserving resources.
3. Tourism: Tourism should be promoted in a more eco-friendly manner, encouraging sustainable practices that minimize the environmental exploitation. Reducing plastic waste and maintaining a strict no-littering policy in tourist spots can help preserve the natural beauty of the region.
4. Renewable Energy: The shift from traditional energy sources to renewable ones, such as solar and hydropower is vital to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change at a regional level. Hydropower projects must be managed sustainably to avoid harming the water systems.
5. Public Awareness and Education: Climate education needs to be integrated at all levels, starting from schools to local communities. By raising awareness about the consequences of climate change and promoting sustainable practices, people can be motivated to take responsibility and act collectively.
(The author of the writeup is a Student of SKUAST Kashmir, he can be reached on [email protected].)