Srinagar, June 25: The picturesque region of Jammu and Kashmir, known for its majestic glaciers, is facing a distressing situation as soaring temperatures, unplanned development, and pollution contribute to the rapid melting of its icy giants. Environmental experts are now predicting severe repercussions if immediate action is not taken to address the issue.
Ajaz Rasool, a hydraulic engineering expert and environmentalist based in Kashmir, described the rising water bodies in several parts of the region as “silent floods,” attributing the phenomenon to melting snow and escalating temperatures. Glaciers such as the Kolahoi Glacier, the largest in Kashmir and also the fastest-depleting glacier in the Himalayas, are among those witnessing the alarming effects of global warming.
“Glaciers in Kashmir, including the Thajiwas glacier in Sonmarg, Kousar Nag glacier, snow reserves in Shopian, and the renowned Tarsar Marsar and Nun Kun Peak glaciers, are all experiencing accelerated melting due to the worldwide impact of global warming,” warned Ajaz. The consequences of this retreat are dire, as rising temperatures triggered by climate change and excessive pollution continue to take their toll.
With the mercury soaring to 35 degrees Celsius in Kashmir, Ajaz expressed concerns about the rapid pace at which glaciers are melting. The environmentally fragile region of Ladakh is also not spared from these adverse effects, as rising temperatures caused by climate change have put its glaciers at risk. Ajaz highlighted the vulnerability of the Himalayan regions to Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF), increased chances of cloud bursts, sudden flash floods, and the looming threat of moronic material breach.
The impact of climate change extends beyond the environment, affecting vital sectors of the economy as well. Ajaz emphasized that the extreme cold and hot temperatures experienced in the valley are unfavourable for agriculture and allied industries. In February of this year, India witnessed record-breaking temperatures, a stark reminder of the detrimental consequences resulting from the emissions of fossil fuels in developed countries.
“While the impact of climate change may not be as pronounced in Kashmir compared to other regions, it is crucial to acknowledge the potential severity of the situation,” Ajaz cautioned. He urged the need for a comprehensive study of weather and climate, particularly in the 60 percent of the Himalayas that lack weather stations.
In contrast to Ajaz’s concerns, Prof. GM Bhat, former Head of the Geology Department at the University of Jammu, viewed the rise in temperatures as a natural phenomenon and saw no cause for alarm. He claimed that certain areas experiencing warming trends are balanced by other areas that are cooling. Citing the continuous melting of glaciers as a natural occurrence, Prof. Bhat also mentioned studies showing cooler oceans in England.
However, Prof. Bhat emphasized the importance of local efforts to preserve the environment. In Kashmir, the increasing pace of industrialization and the proliferation of concrete structures are exacerbating the environmental impact. Prof. Bhat also identified plastic pollution as a significant issue that is deteriorating water bodies, emphasizing the urgent need to address this menace seriously.
Dr Irfan Rashid, a Senior Assistant Professor at the Department of Geoinformatics, University of Kashmir, highlighted the economic dependence of Kashmir on water resources originating from glaciers. Any alteration in these resources directly affects agriculture, horticulture, and hydropower generation – key sectors contributing to the region’s economy. Dr Rashid pointed out the visible impact of climate change, with people converting paddy fields to orchards.
To combat these challenges, Dr Rashid emphasized the importance of implementing efficient public transport measures to safeguard the environment and glaciers. Additionally, government efforts were deemed crucial in addressing the issue effectively.
The glaciers in Kashmir play a vital role as a major water source for irrigation through canals and water streams. Should these glaciers continue to melt at the current alarming rate, the region will face a deficit of irrigation for agricultural lands in the future.
As global temperatures reach record-setting levels this month, casting a foreboding shadow over the climate crisis, concerns are growing that 2023 may become the hottest year ever recorded. Preliminary global average temperatures for June have already surpassed levels observed since 1979 by nearly 1 degree Celsius, according to media reports.
This situation demands urgent attention and concerted efforts to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on the region’s glaciers and the ecosystem they sustain. The time to act is now to ensure a sustainable future for Jammu and Kashmir.
