Kashmir’s traditional watermills grind to a halt amid water scarcity

Ganderbal, Feb 23: The prolonged dry spell and significantly reduced snowfall in Kashmir have severely impacted traditional watermills, locally known as Aab-e-Grate, bringing them to a standstill.

With water levels in streams and canals dwindling, the once-thriving mills, which rely on fast-flowing water to turn their grindstones, are now struggling to remain operational.

The effects of climate change have exacerbated the situation, pushing these centuries-old mills to the brink of closure.

Muhammad Iqbal Khatana, 60, of Surfraw village in Kangan, Ganderbal, has been running an Aab-e-Grate for decades, continuing his ancestral profession.

Expressing his concern, he said, “Aab-e-Grate are environment-friendly, but they are largely forgotten. The erratic weather has led to water scarcity, making it difficult to keep these mills running.”

The majority of these mills have ground to a halt as water sources have dried up.

Explaining the mechanism of the Aab-e-Grate, Khatana said, “These mills are powered by fast-flowing water channelled from streams, which turn the heavy grindstones to produce flour. Traditional water mills do not pollute the atmosphere, nor do they require electricity or fossil fuels.”

Aab-e-Grates have historically been a sustainable means of grinding wheat, rice, and maize, particularly in rural Kashmir.

Many residents prefer flour ground in these mills, considering it superior in quality and taste compared to mass-produced alternatives.

The landscape of Ganderbal, dotted with streams and canals, was once home to numerous Aab-e Grate. However, the ongoing water crisis has made it nearly impossible to sustain them.

The operation of these mills depends on a controlled water flow, regulated through sluice gates to manage the speed of the grinding stones.

With water levels dwindling, this traditional method of grain milling faces an uncertain future.

The Aab-e-Grates in Kashmir showcase the region’s rich cultural and environmental heritage, showcasing how energy can be harnessed sustainably.

However, with climate change continuing to alter weather patterns, these mills now require urgent attention and intervention to ensure their survival.