Is Kashmir Facing an Unprecedented Heat Wave and Water Crisis?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Kashmir is currently facing a severe heat wave, with temperatures soaring above 35 degrees Celsius, leading to alarming water shortages affecting agriculture. Farmers express urgent concerns as their crops suffer, and recent forecasts hint at potential relief with upcoming rainfall. Stay updated on this pressing environmental crisis in the Valley.
Key Takeaways
- Kashmir is experiencing an unprecedented heat wave.
- Temperatures have exceeded 35 degrees Celsius for several days.
- Water levels in the Jhelum River and other water bodies are critically low.
- Farmers are facing severe water shortages affecting crops.
- Upcoming rainfall may offer some relief.
Srinagar, June 20 (NationPress) A remarkable heat wave has taken hold of Kashmir, with temperatures soaring above 35 degrees Celsius over the past few days.
Srinagar registered a maximum temperature of 35.2 degrees Celsius on Thursday, marking the highest June temperature recorded in the last two decades. Jammu city reached a peak of 36.5 degrees Celsius, narrowing the temperature difference between Jammu and Srinagar to a mere 1.3 degrees Celsius.
This extraordinary heat wave has resulted in a significant decline in the water level of the Jhelum River, the principal water source of the Valley, originating from Verinag Spring in Anantnag district and flowing into Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) via Uri in Baramulla district.
As perennial water reservoirs in the mountains that sustain the Valley during hot summer months have been severely depleted due to reduced snowfall in winter, water levels in mountain streams, springs, rivers, lakes, and wells have alarmingly decreased.
Farmers in the highlands of Ganderbal, Srinagar, Budgam, Bandipora, Kupwara, Baramulla, Shopian, Kulgam, and Anantnag districts are expressing grave concerns over water shortages impacting their paddy fields and apple orchards.
Some paddy fields in elevated regions are already suffering due to insufficient irrigation water.
The paddy plant requires ample water until the ears fill, and only during the ripening of the grain and harvest can farmers allow their fields to dry.
Moreover, apple trees need regular irrigation during the fruit-bearing season to produce juicy and vibrant apples. Apples affected by water scarcity are less juicy, lack color, and have a shorter shelf life.
The situation began to manifest in April and May when occasional rainfall helped mitigate the decreased water flow in various rivers, streams, lakes, springs, and wells throughout the Valley.
However, the Meteorological (MeT) department provided some positive news on Friday. A forecast from the MeT office stated, “The weather is expected to remain predominantly dry in the Kashmir division with isolated light rain in the Jammu division over the next 24 hours. Over the next two days, scattered to fairly widespread light rain is anticipated across J&K.”
The school education department has announced a summer break of ten days commencing July 1.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the gravity of the current situation in Kashmir. The intersection of climate change and agriculture is evident here, as the heat wave exacerbates existing water scarcity issues. It is crucial for the community and authorities to act swiftly to address these challenges and ensure the sustainability of our agricultural practices.
NationPress
20/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperatures are being recorded in Kashmir?
Temperatures in Kashmir have been exceeding 35 degrees Celsius, with Srinagar reaching 35.2 degrees Celsius and Jammu 36.5 degrees Celsius.
How is the heat wave affecting water supply?
The heat wave has led to a significant drop in the water levels of the Jhelum River and other water bodies, impacting irrigation for farmers.
What crops are affected by the water shortage?
Paddy fields and apple orchards are particularly affected by the water scarcity.
Is there any forecast for relief in the weather?
The Meteorological department has indicated that scattered to fairly widespread light rain is expected in the coming days.
What measures are being taken for schools?
The school education department has announced a summer break of ten days starting from July 1.
