SRINAGAR, JAN 15: The prolonged dry spell in the Kashmir Valley has escalated concerns as water bodies across Kashmir are now drying up, compounding the challenges faced by the authorities in Jammu and Kashmir.
After the tourism sector suffered a setback due to the lack of snowfall in popular destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg, the focus has shifted to the impact on vital water resources.
Kashmir Valley is experiencing its longest 45-day dry spell, leading to a significant drop in water levels in the region’s rivers. The River Jhelum, a lifeline for the valley, has hit its lowest level, flowing at 0.75 feet at Sangam (Anantnag district) and 0.86 feet at Asham (Bandipora district), according to the Irrigation Department.
A senior engineer from the Irrigation Department expressed concern, stating, “Water levels have drastically decreased in the water bodies. Fortunately, our irrigation season has not started, and that’s why it has not impacted us yet. If the same situation continues, we will have to sit with the agriculture people to see if we need to change the agriculture patterns in the valley.”
The dry spell has also taken a toll on several water supply schemes relying on springs, wells, and other sources, with many drying up or experiencing a significant decrease in water levels.
This marks the lowest recorded water level in the Jhelum River in recent times. The valley faced a similar situation in 2017 when the water level hit its lowest. The ongoing dry spell intensified during this winter season, with minimal snowfall and a 79% deficit in rainfall during December 2023 and a 100% deficit in January 2024 so far, as reported by the Meteorological (MeT) department.
Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of MeT, highlighted the meteorological implications, stating, “Glaciers are shrinking, and the temperature is high during the Chillai Kalan (harsh winters). The dry spell will lead to the shrinking of glaciers, impacting groundwater recharge, overall glacier recharge, and agriculture and horticulture. It will also affect power production.” As the dry spell continues, people in different parts of the Valley are resorting to special prayers, seeking divine intervention to bring an end to the adverse conditions gripping the Kashmir Valley. The MeT department has forecasted a potential respite after January 16, offering hope for relief in North Kashmir and the possibility of rain and snow in various areas after January 25.
