The deficit in rain and snowfall and the unchecked surge in tourism activities in J&K have triggered a rapid glacial meltdown, experts said.
The surge in tourism, particularly in snow-capped regions, is not only triggering a rapid meltdown but also causing a significant decrease in the level of major water bodies.
For the first time in history, the centuries-old freshwater reservoirs in South Kashmir have also dried up, forcing commoners in some villages to switch to the extraction of groundwater for the fulfilment of their basic requirements.
Expert groups have warned that the increase in trekking-related activities in the region is significantly contributing to the ongoing crisis.
As adventure tourism gains popularity, the increasing footfall in Kashmir’s fragile ecosystems is contributing to pollution, which experts say is affecting snow accumulation patterns.
Popular trekking routes like Tarsar Marsar, Kolahoi Glacier, and the Great Lakes Trail attract hundreds of adventure seekers every year.
However, the unchecked rise in foot traffic is leaving behind a trail of plastic waste, carbon emissions from camping equipment, and soil degradation, all of which impact the local climate.
Also read: Rain, snowfall end J&K’s three-month dry spell
Trekking groups often carry non-biodegradable materials such as plastic bottles, food wrappers, and disposable utensils. Despite efforts to promote eco-friendly tourism, a significant portion of waste is left behind, leading to environmental degradation.
"Even minor levels of soot and pollution can have long-term effects on Kashmir’s glaciers and snowfields.
If this trend continues, we may see drastic changes in snowfall patterns," Sartaj Ahmad, an environmental scientist, told reporters here.
Local communities and environmental groups have expressed concerns over the irresponsible behaviour of trekkers.
While tourism is a vital contributor to state GDP, uncontrolled trekking without environmental responsibility could threaten the very landscapes that attract visitors.
Javaid Ahmad, 35, who runs a travel agency in Srinagar, said, “Over the past 5 years, the snow-capped mountains have been shrinking, particularly in places that have witnessed a surge in tourism.”
“The demand from tourists has also grown as they want to explore more offbeat and less visited places, which has also been a cause of significant concern,” he said.
Furthermore, the experts also warn that if this surge in tourism is allowed to take place like it is happening over the recent years, it will trigger catastrophic conditions for the local population in the coming years.
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