Declining production of saffron must worry us all as grave concern is being expressed over the declining production of saffron in Kashmir. Experts attribute the decreases in production of this highly priced product to increasing pollution of the area where saffron is grown. As per the estimates the production of saffron has come down to half a kilogram per acre from the earlier production of 2.5 Kgs per acre. If the estimate provided by some non-governmental organisations is accurate then it indicates that Kashmir will cease to produce any saffron, if things that resulted in this catastrophic decline remain unchanged. One wonders how will the sprawling tracts of land that produce saffron look like, when flowers will no longer bloom on its bosom! How great a loss if it is allowed to happen? Source of the pollution that has wreaked havoc to the saffron cultivation is cement factories that have been permitted to be set up in the adjoining areas of saffron lands. One fails to understand the economic sense in setting up cement factories in an area where saffron is cultivated? The loss that is suffered by the economy of the state by the decreased production of saffron cannot be compensated by the gains made by cement industry? Besides saffron has not just economic value, but also is a part of culture and environment of Kashmir. It needs serious thinking as to how saffron production can be first saved from any further decline followed by a comprehensive plan to boost its production. Immediately what needs to be done is to make the cement factories that are operating in the area, to comply with the pollution norms. And if anyone is found violating the rules, it should entail the cancellation of his registration straightaway. This will mark the beginning of corrective measures. Later in the process government must contemplate of shifting cement industry from areas that fall near the saffron lands. If things are not taken seriously, we will inflict a deep cut on the economy, culture and environment of our valley.