Climate change no longer a distant threat for J&K: EPG to petition Govt on policy change

Srinagar: Climate change is no longer a distant threat for Jammu & Kashmir—it is already reshaping its weather patterns, agriculture, and public health. This was the key message at the workshop “Water, Weather, and Well-Being: Climate Change in the Kashmir Valley” organized by the Environmental Policy Group (EPG) in collaboration with The Institution of Engineers (India), Jammu & Kashmir State Centre.

The event brought together climate experts, policymakers, academicians, and civil society representatives to discuss the pressing environmental challenges facing the region. The workshop focused on erratic weather patterns, unpredictable precipitation, rising temperatures, and their consequences on water security, agriculture, and public health.

Professor Shakil Romshoo, Vice Chancellor of Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), who was the chief guest, highlighted the stark reality of climate change in the region. He emphasized that while Jammu & Kashmir contributes minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions, it faces disproportionate consequences of global climate shifts.

“We are witnessing altered autumn seasons critical for our agriculture, prolonged dry spells like the recent seven-month drought, and erratic weather extremes. The decline in saffron productivity is a clear indicator of changing climatic patterns,” Prof. Romshoo said. He noted that while global temperatures have risen by 0.8°C in the past century, Kashmir has experienced an even sharper increase of 1.3°C, underscoring the urgency of global climate action.

Opening the session, EPG Convenor Faiz Bakshi reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to environmental advocacy and sustainable development. He spoke about EPG’s efforts, including Public Interest Litigations (PILs) regarding the 2014 floods and ongoing concerns about solid waste management in Jammu & Kashmir.

“Despite numerous court orders, implementation remains sluggish due to a lack of commitment from officials. However, the National Green Tribunal (NGT)’s proactive stance, including hefty fines, has created some hope for stricter enforcement,” Bakshi remarked.

Former Srinagar Municipal Corporation Commissioner, Dr. GN Qasba, called for urgent reforms in urban planning to enhance climate resilience.

Speaking virtually, Arjumand Hussain,  Founder of Ziraat Times and an  International Development Specialist, presented alarming projections for Jammu & Kashmir’s food security.

“Climate change is set to make J&K 60% food-deficient, demanding immediate action,” he warned. Talib proposed the introduction of an Environmental Cess in J&K to finance climate adaptation and mitigation efforts.

“The Polluter Pays Principle must be implemented. A cess on high-pollution tourism, construction, and industries can generate ₹1,000 crore annually for a Climate Change Fund, which can support afforestation, greening projects, and environmental conservation,” he suggested.

He also pointed to the weakening Social Environmental Impact Assessment (SEIA) regime, stating that major infrastructure projects in J&K are not undergoing transparent environmental evaluations.

Dr. Khurshid Iqbal, former Head of Cardiology at SKIMS, warned about rising health risks linked to climate change.

“The increase in respiratory illnesses, especially among vulnerable populations, is directly linked to deteriorating air quality caused by dust storms and pollution,” he said. He stressed the need for stronger public health interventions to tackle climate-induced diseases.

Dr Jasia Bashir, Assistant Professor at the Islamic University of Science and Technology, shared critical insights on climate-related impacts and adaptation strategies. She stressed, “Climate change is a global phenomenon, and the Kashmir Valley is already witnessing its dire consequences. The alarming rate at which our glaciers are melting is a clear warning signal. As water sources diminish and weather patterns shift unpredictably, we must prioritize scientific research and data-driven policymaking. Understanding these changes helps us adapt our agricultural practices and water management strategies to safeguard our environment and communities.”

Prominent RTI activist and environmentalist Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat raised serious concerns about Kashmir’s water security.

“If current trends continue, by 2030, clean drinking water will be scarce in Kashmir. We are already relying on plastic bottled water, which is only a temporary solution,” he cautioned.

Dr. Bhat urged the government to crack down on pollution and illegal mining, warning that failing to act now could force communities to migrate due to uninhabitable conditions.

Maajid Farooq, Scientist at the Department of Environment, Ecology & Remote Sensing, presented a data-driven analysis of changing climate patterns in J&K.

“Our research reveals not only temperature shifts but also major changes in precipitation patterns. These threaten traditional farming calendars, making it crucial for policymakers to equip farmers with adaptive strategies to safeguard their livelihoods,” he explained.

Altaf Ahmad Andrabi, former Director of Agriculture, emphasized the need for grassroots action, advocating for the promotion of alternate climate-resilient crops to sustain local farming communities.

“To tackle climate change, we must engage directly with farmers and introduce crop diversification strategies suited to changing weather conditions,” Andrabi said.

The panel discussion was moderated by Engineer Ajaz Rasool and Engineer Iftikhar Hakim, who facilitated an engaging Q&A session with participants.

At the conclusion of the event, Engineer Iftikhar Hakim delivered the vote of thanks.

The EPG now plans to prepare a comprehensive report summarizing the workshop’s findings and policy recommendations. This report will be formally submitted to the government to guide decision-making on climate adaptation strategies.