Jhelum: Water levels low as pollution threatens Kashmir’s lifeline

Saqib Rather

Srinagar, June 16: The River Jhelum, regarded as the lifeline of Kashmir, is facing a growing environmental crisis as declining water levels and increasing pollution raise alarm among environmentalists, residents, and water management experts.

Over the past several months, the river has witnessed an unusual reduction in water flow at several locations across the Valley. Experts attribute the decline to changing climatic conditions, reduced snowfall during winter, prolonged dry spells, and increasing pressure on water resources. At the same time, untreated sewage, plastic waste, and other pollutants continue to find their way into the river, affecting water quality and aquatic life.
Environmental experts warn that the combination of reduced water discharge and rising contamination could have serious implications for drinking water supplies, agriculture, biodiversity, and the overall ecological health of the region.
“The Jhelum is showing clear signs of stress. Low water levels reduce the river’s ability to naturally dilute pollutants, making contamination more concentrated and harmful,” said Dr. Aijaz Ahmad, an environmental researcher. “If immediate conservation measures are not adopted, the river’s ecological balance could be severely affected.”
Residents living along the riverbanks say the changes are becoming increasingly visible.
“The river used to flow much stronger during this time of the year. Now, in many stretches, the water level appears noticeably lower, and waste can often be seen floating on the surface,” said Mohammad Yousuf, a resident of Srinagar’s old city.
The shrinking flow has also raised concerns among farmers who depend on the river and its irrigation channels for agricultural activities.
“A healthy Jhelum is essential for our fields and orchards. Any further decline in water availability will directly impact farming and livelihoods,” said Abdul Rashid, a farmer from Budgam district.
Environmental groups have urged authorities to strengthen pollution control measures, improve sewage treatment infrastructure, and launch large-scale awareness campaigns to protect the river.
“The Jhelum is more than a water body; it is part of Kashmir’s identity and survival,” said Shazia Bano, a member of a local environmental organisation. “Protecting it requires collective responsibility from both the government and the public.”
Officials acknowledge the challenges and say efforts are underway to improve river conservation and monitor pollution sources. However, experts believe that long-term solutions must include watershed protection, wetland restoration, scientific water management, and strict enforcement against illegal dumping.
As concerns over climate change and environmental degradation continue to grow, the condition of the Jhelum serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to safeguard one of Kashmir’s most vital natural resources before the damage becomes irreversible.