Heatwave Induced Water Scarcity

A severe heatwave sweeping across Kashmir has exacerbated the valley’s water scarcity, leading to public demonstrations at some places during the last over a month. Citizens in various districts are demanding immediate government intervention to provide water through tankers as traditional sources dry up. This crisis, while not unprecedented, has underscored Kashmir’s vulnerability to extreme weather conditions.

Temperatures in Kashmir have soared to record highs, with many areas experiencing prolonged periods of intense heat. The soaring temperatures have led to a sharp increase in water consumption while simultaneously reducing the availability of water from natural sources. Streams, rivers, and wells that locals traditionally rely on are running dry, leaving communities in distress.

This is not the first time Kashmir has faced such a dire situation. Water scarcity has been a recurring issue in Kashmir, particularly during the summer months. Previous heatwaves have similarly led to water shortages, triggering public outcry and prompting temporary measures from the government. Despite these recurring crises, long-term solutions have been slow to materialize.

The current heatwave-induced water crisis in Kashmir highlights the urgent need for both immediate relief measures and long-term solutions. While the government’s response to provide water tankers is a necessary stopgap, addressing the root causes of water scarcity requires a coordinated effort involving infrastructure upgrades, climate change mitigation, and community engagement. Only through sustained and comprehensive action can Kashmir hope to secure a reliable and adequate water supply for its residents, even in the face of future heat waves.

Several factors have contributed to the current water crisis in Kashmir. One of the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves are a clear indication of climate change. Rising temperatures are reducing the snowpack in the Himalayas, which is a crucial source of freshwater for the region. With less snowmelt feeding rivers and streams, water availability during the summer months has significantly decreased.

The growing population in Kashmir is another factor that has put additional pressure on the region’s water resources. Urbanization and increased agricultural activities have further strained the already limited supply.

Another contributing factor is that the valley’s water infrastructure is outdated and insufficient to meet the demands of a growing population. Leakage and wastage in the water supply system are rampant, exacerbating the scarcity.

With surface water sources drying up, many residents have turned to groundwater. However, over-extraction has led to a significant decline in the water table, making it increasingly difficult to access potable water is another important factor.

The government has acknowledged the severity of the crisis and has promised swift action. Water tankers are being deployed to the most affected areas, and efforts are underway to repair and upgrade the existing water supply infrastructure. However, these measures are seen as temporary fixes rather than long-term solutions.

Authorities are also urging residents to conserve water and use it judiciously. Public awareness campaigns are being launched to educate people about the importance of water conservation and the steps they can take to reduce wastage.

There is need for comprehensive long-term strategies to address water scarcity in Kashmir.

• Upgrading the water supply infrastructure to reduce leakage and wastage, and implementing efficient water management practices.
• Rainwater Encouraging the adoption of rainwater harvesting systems to collect and store rainwater for future use.
• Planting trees and restoring forest cover to improve the natural water cycle and enhance groundwater recharge.
• Promoting water-efficient irrigation techniques and crops that require less water.
• Involving local communities in water management and conservation efforts to ensure sustainable use of resources.

On the other hand the severe weather event has led to a drastic reduction in water availability for irrigated lands, threatening the agricultural backbone of the Valley. Farmers are facing acute shortages, with many reporting crop failures and significant reductions in yield.

Agriculture is the lifeline of Kashmir, with vast tracts of land dedicated to rice, maize, and apple orchards. The current heatwave has exacerbated water shortages, leaving irrigation canals dry and depleting groundwater resources. Farmers in districts such as Pulwama, Anantnag, and Baramulla are particularly hard-hit, as traditional water sources have dried up or become insufficient.

Kashmir’s primary rivers, fed by glacial melt, have seen a significant drop in water levels. The heatwave has accelerated the melting process, but the volume of water reaching the plains has diminished due to increased evaporation and reduced snowfall in preceding winters.

Irrigation canals that distribute water from rivers to agricultural fields are running dry. Wells, which supplement irrigation needs, have also seen their water tables drop to alarming levels, rendering them ineffective.

The intense heat has increased the water demand of crops. Rice paddies, which require consistent flooding, are particularly vulnerable. Without adequate water, crops are wilting, and yields are expected to plummet.

Farmers are increasingly desperate as they watch their crops wither under the relentless sun. The lack of water has forced many to leave their fields fallow, unable to sustain their livelihoods. Protests have erupted in various rural areas, with farmers demanding immediate government intervention to provide water for irrigation. 

(The author is senior staffer Greater Kashmir)