Jammu and Kashmir, which is often referred to as “paradise on Earth,” is at a critical juncture as the region is caught in the dilemma of balancing development and environmental concerns.
The majority of water bodies, including rivers, lakes, and wetlands, have witnessed unprecedented decreases in the water level as a result of the constant unusual and prolonged dry spells.
Subsequently, the region is also witnessing shrinkage of the water bodies due to the rapid meltdown of its glaciers.
The unchecked tourism in the region, although important for the region's development, is also escalating the climatic crisis.
Experts have warned that if the numbers keep increasing, this will lead to disastrous repercussions for the ecologically sensitive region of Jammu and Kashmir.
Official stats suggest that, since 2021, especially the post-COVID pandemic period, J&K has witnessed a massive tourist influx in the region, shattering all previous records.
The central government has aggressively promoted J&K as a prime tourist destination.
While this has provided a much-needed boost to the local economy, it has also placed additional pressure on the region’s fragile ecosystem; waste mismanagement in climatically sensitive regions and over-exploitation of natural resources have become cause of great concern.
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Meanwhile, popular tourist destinations like Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and Sonamarg are seeing a massive rush during the tourist season, thus witnessing an increase in carbon footprints leading to soil erosion, deforestation, and pollution of water bodies.
In the past 4 years, J&K has experienced erratic weather patterns. In 2020, the region recorded a 40 per cent deficit in rainfall, followed by 2021 which also saw a 30 per cent reduction in rain and snowfall.
Subsequently, 2022 witnessed a 40 per cent reduction followed by a 29 per cent deficit in rainfall in 2024.
Additionally, the region has also suffered a decline in major crop production. Horticulture, which is considered an important part of Kashmir’s economy, reported a 20-30 per cent decline in yields over the past three years.
J&K needs regulated tourism, with strict regulations on tourist activities, especially in sensitive areas.
The region needs to focus on ecotourism activities to avoid the adverse effects of the changing climate and weather patterns.
Additionally, there is a need for better climate-resilient infrastructure, community involvement, and policy interventions.
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