SRINAGAR, India (AP) — The Himalayan region of Kashmir has been gripped by a mysterious crisis as a renowned ancient spring dried up due to severe weather conditions, causing distress among the locals. This unprecedented event marked the first time in memory that the spring had ceased to flow. However, there was relief when the spring revived on Friday, thanks to fresh rainfall and snowfall. Yet, the incident has sparked concerns among Kashmir residents about the potential impact of climate change and shifting weather patterns on the region’s water sources crucial for sustaining its renowned orchards and vast agricultural lands.
Numerous springs and streams, including tributaries of the main Jhelum River that traverses the Kashmir Valley, have succumbed to drought in Indian-controlled Kashmir. This has led to water scarcity in recent weeks across the region known for its majestic Himalayan peaks and pristine lakes. A viral video circulating on social media depicted an elderly woman emotionally praying and lamenting in front of an ancient spring in southern Kashmir’s Achabal town. The spring, located within a historic garden constructed by Mughal Emperor Jahangir’s wife in the 17th century, serves as a vital water source for 20 villages in the vicinity.
The distressing scene captured in the video resonated deeply with the people of Kashmir, many of whom now rely on government-provided water tankers. Weather experts have noted an over 80% deficit in rainfall and snowfall in the region since the beginning of the year, with minimal snowfall in the plains and below-average levels in the higher altitudes. Daytime temperatures have soared 5 to 8 degrees Celsius above the normal range for over a month.
Authorities have initiated an inquiry to determine the cause of the sudden disappearance of the spring waters. This crisis has compelled officials to postpone the annual national winter games held in the popular tourist destination of Gulmarg, renowned for Asia’s largest ski terrain. The cancellation has disappointed thousands of domestic and international tourists who flock to Gulmarg for skiing and sledding in its breathtaking snow-covered landscapes during winter.
Scientists attribute the erratic weather patterns in Kashmir to broader climate change and global warming. Mukhtar Ahmed, head of the Indian Meteorological Department’s Kashmir office, remarked that extreme weather events are increasingly frequent in the region. The effects of global warming are starkly evident in this environmentally fragile land.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah acknowledged the water crisis facing Kashmir this year, emphasizing the need for proactive water management and conservation measures. He stressed the importance of a collective effort from both the government and residents to address the crisis and change their approach towards water usage.
With Earth experiencing record-breaking temperatures in recent years, surpassing climate thresholds, the urgency of combating climate change and preserving water resources has never been more crucial.
During the 2015 Paris climate talks, world leaders came together to address the urgent need to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels in order to prevent the most devastating impacts of climate change. This marked a crucial turning point in history, as it was the first time that the Earth exceeded the desired threshold for an entire year. Scientists warn that prolonged exposure above this critical limit will result in a significant rise in fatalities, widespread destruction, loss of biodiversity, and sea level elevation caused by the increasingly severe weather patterns associated with rising temperatures.
