Srinagar: In a landmark initiative aimed at addressing the pressing environmental challenges in Jammu and Kashmir, the Environmental Policy Group (EPG), in collaboration with the Institution of Engineers (India), Jammu & Kashmir State Centre (IEIJKSC), has submitted a comprehensive report on Climate Change Impacts and Policy Recommendations to the Government of Jammu & Kashmir. The report outlines an ambitious yet pragmatic strategy to mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure long-term sustainability for the region.
The report was officially submitted by Faiz Bakshi, Convener of EPG, and Er. Iftikhar Ahmad Hakim, FIE, Chairman of IEIJKSC. The contributions of Prof. Dr. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Mr. Arjimund Hussain, Dr. Jassia Bashir, Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat, and other prominent participants enriched the report with multi-sectoral insights.
Prepared following an extensive workshop on March 1, 2025, titled “Water, Weather, and Well-Being: Climate Change in the Kashmir Valley,” the report brings together insights from leading experts in academia, healthcare, environmental science, and policy. Key recommendations cover sustainable water management, climate-resilient agriculture, public health infrastructure, economic diversification, urban planning, and environmental governance.
Key Climate Challenges Facing J&K
The report highlights the profound environmental changes affecting Jammu and Kashmir:
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Erratic weather patterns, reduced precipitation, and rising temperatures are disrupting water resources, agriculture, public health, and the economy.
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Water scarcity is escalating due to declining water levels in the River Jhelum and its tributaries, compounded by irregular snowmelt.
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Groundwater depletion and pollution from industrial, agricultural, and domestic sources further exacerbate water insecurity.
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The region’s horticulture sector, including apple and saffron cultivation, faces major setbacks due to unpredictable weather and reduced irrigation.
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The tourism sector has suffered from reduced snowfall, leading to the cancellation of winter events and the decline of winter sports activities.
EPG’s report underscores the fact that although Jammu and Kashmir contribute minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions, the region remains highly vulnerable to climate change impacts.
Comprehensive Policy Recommendations Submitted to the Government
1. Sustainable Water Management
One of the central concerns in the report is the alarming depletion of water resources.
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Rainwater Harvesting: EPG recommends the mandatory implementation of rainwater harvesting systems across urban and rural areas to recharge groundwater levels.
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Pollution Control: Stringent measures are advised to prevent contamination of water bodies through untreated industrial effluents and household waste.
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Regulation of Illegal Mining: The group calls for strict enforcement against illegal mining, which has disrupted natural water flows and exacerbated soil erosion.
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Protection of Wetlands: Conservation of Dal Lake, Wular Lake, and Hokersar Wetland is highlighted as a priority to maintain groundwater recharge and flood regulation.
2. Climate-Resilient Agriculture
EPG stresses the need to safeguard food security by making agriculture resilient to climate change.
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Development of Drought-Resistant Crops: Investment in R&D is critical to developing crop varieties that can withstand drought, pest infestations, and temperature extremes.
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Promotion of Crop Diversification: Reducing reliance on single crops like apples and paddy can mitigate risks from climate shocks.
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Agroforestry and Organic Farming: The report suggests adopting agroforestry on a commercial scale and promoting organic farming practices to restore soil health and enhance climate resilience.
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Indoor Farming for Saffron: Encouraging indoor saffron cultivation, particularly in the Pampore belt, could offer a controlled environment and stable yields.
3. Strengthening Public Health Infrastructure
Climate change has direct consequences for public health, as seen in rising cases of vector-borne diseases, respiratory ailments, and heat stress.
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Healthcare Infrastructure Development: EPG recommends upgrading healthcare facilities to deal with climate-induced health crises.
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Air Quality Monitoring and Pollution Control: The government must establish air quality monitoring stations in major cities like Srinagar and enforce pollution control measures.
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Public Awareness Campaigns: Extensive health campaigns are needed to inform citizens about heatwave preparedness, safe drinking water, and preventive healthcare.
4. Economic Diversification and Sustainable Tourism
Recognizing the overdependence on agriculture and snow-based tourism, the EPG advises:
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Promotion of Eco-Tourism: Sustainable, nature-based tourism can minimize environmental impact while providing economic benefits.
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Investments in Renewable Energy: Expansion of solar, wind, and hydropower initiatives will reduce reliance on fossil fuels and create green jobs.
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Support for Rural Enterprises: Encouraging small-scale rural industries, handicrafts, and organic farming can provide alternative livelihoods.
5. Urban Planning and Climate-Resilient Infrastructure
Urban centers face increasing threats from water shortages and climate-induced disasters.
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Flood-Resistant Infrastructure: The government should enforce building codes for flood-resilient structures and integrate green stormwater management systems.
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Energy-Efficient Urban Development: Rooftop solar systems and energy-efficient designs must be mandated in new buildings.
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Sustainable Transport Solutions: Investing in electric buses, cycle tracks, and pedestrian-friendly streets is essential to reduce emissions from transport.
6. Environmental Governance and Policy Reforms
EPG proposes structural changes in environmental policy and governance:
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Establish a Climate Resilience Task Force: A dedicated body to coordinate climate adaptation, monitor progress, and revise policies as needed.
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Environmental Cess and Polluter Pays Principle: An environmental tax on high-carbon activities and polluting industries should fund climate adaptation projects.
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Overhaul of EIA and SIA Systems: The report recommends reforms to ensure transparency and efficacy in environmental assessments for development projects.
Additional Concerns Highlighted by Experts
During the workshop, experts presented additional critical points:
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Black Carbon on Glaciers: Presence of black carbon on Kashmir’s glaciers accelerates melting, impacting water resources and increasing flood risks.
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Untreated Waste at Achan: An estimated 11.5 lakh metric tons of untreated solid waste at Achan landfill poses a major environmental hazard requiring urgent attention.
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Illegal Mining: The report highlights systemic corruption in issuing mining permits and calls for strict regulation to prevent further ecological damage.
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Green Building Practices: Encouraging the use of eco-friendly construction materials can reduce the carbon footprint of infrastructure projects.
Need for Comprehensive Water Conservation and Management Policy
EPG emphasizes that J&K lacks a comprehensive water management policy, despite its vulnerability to water-related disasters such as the catastrophic 2014 floods. The report calls for a policy addressing:
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Efficient Allocation of Water for domestic, industrial, agricultural, and hydropower needs.
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Groundwater Regulation to prevent overexploitation.
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Conservation Measures to minimize water wastage and enhance storage capacities.
