SRINAGAR, JAN 17: The persistent dry conditions in Kashmir have severely impacted the region’s livelihood, affecting key sectors such as tourism, horticulture, and agriculture.
J&K faced a significant rainfall shortage of 79%, registering only 12.6 mm compared to the usual 59.6 mm in December 2023, according to official data from the Indian Meteorological Department.
The ongoing dry spell persists into January, typically the coldest month with expected heavy snowfall, adversely affecting the livelihoods of thousands in the region.
The dry winter weather in Kashmir has had a notable impact on winter tourism, leading both foreign and domestic tourists to either delay or cancel their scheduled trips.
Mohammad Ayoub, a guide at the scenic Gulmarg, finds himself idle these days. “For the first time in my 10-year career, January has left me without work. Gulmarg appears deserted with significantly fewer tourists due to the absence of snow,” he said.
He said thousands of people including Ponny wallas, guides, ski trainers, shopkeepers and others associated with the hotel industry are jobless.
Manzoor Pakhtoon, the president of the House Boat Owners Association (HBOA) in Kashmir, expressed concern over the tourism sector being adversely affected by the absence of snow.
“During winters, tourists typically visit Kashmir for the snowy experience, but cancellations have occurred due to the lack of snowfall,” he said.
Mohammad Shoib, a visitor from Gujarat, had anticipated a snowy adventure for his son and daughter to try skiing. However, the lack of snow has thwarted their plans. “We reached Kashmir on January 12, and we have been eagerly waiting for the snow. We have now decided to return home,” he said.
Last winter, the region received 55,000 tourists, aiming for three crore tourists this year, but the dry winter is proving to be a significant obstacle.
Despite promotional campaigns and events attracting domestic travellers, the extended dry spell is dampening the spirits of tour operators.
“The decline in tourists not only affects hoteliers, houseboat owners, and transporters but also impacts dry fruit dealers, and spice traders,” an official of J&K Tourism Department, said. The prolonged dry spell is also negatively impacting crucial water sources like the Jhelum River, affecting irrigation options for various crops, particularly orchard fields in Kashmir, which heavily rely on precipitation for water.
