by Syed Shuja Andrabi
Known for centuries as “heaven on earth,” Kashmir is now witnessing clear changes in its environment. The snow arrives later, dry periods last longer, temperatures creep higher, and the air grows hazier. These shifts worry residents, scientists, and people whose livelihoods depend on tourism. This decline did not happen overnight. It comes from years of growing strain on the region’s ecology. Unchecked urban spread, shrinking wetlands, lost tree cover, relentless construction, and crowded roads have together unsettled the valley’s natural rhythm.
Building in vulnerable zones should be halted. Unplanned expansion is blocking natural waterways, kicking up dust, and placing more stress on an already delicate environment. These changes are altering winter patterns, threatening water sources, and touching public health.
What Must Be Done: Concrete Measures, Not Words
While responsibility for large-scale action lies with the government, safeguarding Kashmir is a shared duty. Change also begins at home, in daily choices. People can contribute directly: opting for public transport, sharing car rides, and choosing to walk for short distances ease traffic and clean the air. Managing waste responsibly—segregating garbage, composting kitchen scraps, and never resorting to open burning—protects land and waterways. Conserving water, planting a tree, and supporting local conservation efforts are steps everyone can take. Collective public commitment makes policy measures stronger and more effective.
For its part, authority must act without delay. Removing old, smoke-heavy vehicles from the roads and investing in clean public transit—especially electric buses and e-mobility—would cut pollution noticeably. Construction needs firm rules to control dust. Wetlands like Hokersar, Wular, and Anchar require urgent revival. Planting trees cannot be just for show; it is essential. Bringing life back to barren slopes, shielding remaining forests, and expanding green cover will help retain moisture, clean the air, and steady the climate.
If this deterioration continues, the economy, tourism above all will face collapse. It is already under pressure. More environmental harm will only push recovery further out of reach.
This is an appeal to those in authority and to every resident: please do not treat this as merely another report. It is an alert, a reminder, and a call for movement before the harm cannot be undone. What is decided and done now, by all, will shape Kashmir’s future.
Author can be reached at Contactssa6095@gmail.com
