Sustainable solutions needed to address Kashmir’s weather challenges: Cong’s Dr Audil Mir

Srinagar, Dec 28: Congress leader and the party’s Media Coordinator Kashmir, Dr Audil Farooq Mir (Lasjan) on Saturday called for sustainable mechanisms to address the region’s recurring weather challenges while saying that the current systems are outdated and inadequate.
In a statement issued here, Dr Audil highlighted the increasing ineffectiveness of crisis management strategies, which continue to dominate responses to extreme weather events. He said that disruptions such as power outages, road blockages and interruptions in transport services are not isolated incidents but symptoms of a deeper systemic issue.
“The mosques being thrown open for tourists, all flights being grounded, stranded passengers on the NH, suspension of railway services, no electric current and so on are clear indicators urging a collective effort for sustainable infrastructure development,” he said.
The Congress leader said there is a pressing need for a hybrid mechanism that can address both seasonal demands and unpredictable weather patterns. This requires a shift from reactive measures to proactive, long-term solutions, he said.
“An 8 inches of snow shouldn’t take away drinking water or electric current. These basic necessities must be safeguarded regardless of the weather,” he added.
Instead of focusing on “superficial fixes”, Dr Audil called for an emphasis on substantial infrastructure development and the implementation of policies designed to endure beyond short-term crises.
He also criticised the practice of “ad-hoc” solutions, saying, “A commissioner overseeing dewatering or a DC overseeing traffic movement on the NH or the Div Com checking hospitals during snowfall days do not bring solace but only raise eyes towards the insufficiency in the system.”
He said that snow clearance using loaders, traditionally known as JCBs, which are put into operation despite being technically inadequate, highlights a technical deficit. “While clearing snow, these machines damage the roads, posing risks to infrastructure. This requires proper oversight and accountability,” he asserted.
He said true development stems from the confidence of the people, which requires the application of both administrative and legislative intervention for effective rectification.
“Our goal must be to create a resilient infrastructure that withstands weather challenges and ensures uninterrupted services for the public. It is time to move beyond token gestures and focus on real, transformative progress,” he said.
Furthermore, Dr Audil said that dual control in J&K is causing inefficiency in administrative delivery. “Therefore, real power should be entrusted to elected representatives in the true spirit of democracy and thus paving a way for statehood remains essential,” he said. “Congress will continue its struggle for the restoration of statehood.”