Alarming climatic challenges in J&K: Sat Sharma seeks Centre’s financial, technical support

Jammu, Dec 12: Rajya Sabha MP and J&K BJP president Sat Sharma Friday raised the issue of grave climatic challenges being faced by Jammu and Kashmir during the Zero Hour in the Upper House.

Expressing deep concern over the increasing vulnerability of the region to climatic disturbances, he urged the central government to extend enhanced financial and technical assistance to help the Union Territory effectively deal with natural disasters.

Sharma highlighted that Jammu & Kashmir was witnessing visible and alarming changes in climate patterns, including rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and increased frequency of extreme weather events such as cloudbursts, flash floods, and landslides.

Referring to the recent flash flood in the Chisoti area of Padder sub region in district Kishtwar, which resulted in loss of lives and property, Sharma emphasised the urgent need for scientific and preventive measures to avert such incidents in future.

He said that while initiatives under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) and National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC) were significant, J&K required focussed attention, advanced resources, and sustained central support to implement climate-resilient measures.

Calling for upgradation of climate-monitoring and early-warning systems, Sat Sharma urged the Government of India to deploy modern technologies such as Doppler radar systems, satellite-based monitoring, and ground sensor networks across vulnerable regions to strengthen atmospheric surveillance and ensure timely alerts.

These technologies, he stressed, would help minimize damage to life and infrastructure by enabling quicker and more effective response during emergencies.

Sat Sharma expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP national president JP Nadda, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan for their visionary leadership and the effective measures undertaken by the central government during natural calamities in the past.

He said their proactive approach always ensured timely relief, rehabilitation, and strong support to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Reiterating his commitment to safeguard the people of J&K, Sharma said that strengthening climate resilience was not only essential for disaster management but also for protecting livelihoods and ensuring sustainable development.

He appealed to the Centre to extend all necessary assistance so that Jammu and Kashmir could face future climatic challenges with greater preparedness and confidence.