SAVE SPRINGS

Springs are not only groundwater discharge points in lakes and mountains but also an important part of our eco-system. Kashmir is dotted with springs, however, most of these water sources face threat of extinction due to pollution and haphazard constructions.

Jhelum river, considered to be the lifeline of Kashmir, originates from Verinag spring in south Kashmir. Besides, there are major springs in Srinagar, Achabal, Kokernag, Malaknag,Martand and Ganderbal. Springs are one of the major water sources of several water bodies.

Popularly known as Chashma, from ages, springs have been playing an important role in meeting drinking water needs and irrigation, replenishing water bodies with fresh lease of water.
Studies reveal that water from 87 percent of spring water can be used for drinking purposes in Kashmir. However, in absence of proper management of springs, these aquifers are losing their carrying capacity and water quality.

Major threats to Kashmir springs include pollution by sewage and fertilizer influx, deforestation, siltation, constructions and climate change.

It is pathetic to see the deplorable condition of springs on the banks of water bodies in Srinagar. Several springs have been buried under garbage and debris near Aanchar, Khushalsar and Gilsar lakes in Srinagar. Once considered to be sacred, springs are facing an onslaught of human greed and official apathy!

Though the Government is taking some measures to restore the springs under ‘Mission Amrit Sarovar’, a lot more needs to be done. There is a silver lining as people have started to realise the importance of springs. In this regard, the Nigeen Lake Conservation Organisation (NLCO), a voluntary environmental group, has launched a campaign to restore the springs in Srinagar. So far NLCO has restored three springs at Sazgaripora area of Hawal in Downtown Srinagar. Work on the fourth spring is ongoing.

As per NLCO chairman Manzoor Wangnoo, there is a need to educate people about the importance of water bodies and springs. The three springs restored by NLCO so far are important for providing fresh lease of water in Khushalsar lake. But the task is too challenging for NLCO as there are 19 more visible springs around the lake. But the question is that it isn’t the job of only NLCO to restore springs, but responsibility of people too!

We have to understand that there are thousands of springs in Kashmir which need scientific measures for restoration. At least people can launch a campaign to identify and try to clean areas around springs in their respective areas.

“Studies indicate that the instances of spring drying is increasing in the Kashmir valley,” notes a study ‘Critical appraisal of the status and hydrogeochemical characteristics of freshwater springs in Kashmir Valley conducted by Sami Ullah Bhat, Shahid Ahmad Dar and Aadil Hamid.
The study attributes the drying up of springs to glacier retreat, pollution, blocking of feeding channels, and forest denudation.

The researchers stated that future changes in recharge of spring water are not only ruled by the anticipated vagaries in precipitation but also by other hydrological processes such as snowmelt and evaporation.

The researchers stated that the current total domestic demand of drinking water is estimated to be 235 billion liters/year and is projected to reach 850 billion liters/year by 2050. They state that with rapidly increasing water scarcity, propelled by climate change and population growth, springs are likely to play a vital role in meeting the domestic water demand in future.

Dr. Moonisa Aslam Dervash, an environmental expert states that restoration of Springs in the Western Himalaya is a critical ecological and socio-economic endeavour, given the vital role that springs play in sustaining local communities and biodiversity.

“Springs are a primary source of water for drinking, agriculture, and livestock, especially in the mountainous regions where other water sources are scarce. However, the degradation of these springs due to deforestation, land-use land cover transformations, and climate change has led to a significant decline in water availability, directly impacting the sustenance and livelihoods of the people living in these areas,” she states.

Dr Moonisa advocates for the integration of traditional knowledge at an individualistic as well as collective levels with modern scientific approaches to restore and manage springs, ensuring water security for future generations.

We have to understand that restoration of springs assumes significance in view of prolonged dry spells and rising temperature due to climate change. Kashmir this year witnessed dry winter and hot summer. The indicators of climate changes are clearly visible in Kashmir.  These springs can be lifesavers during drought-like situations. It is high time that all stakeholders join hands to safeguard springs from extinction.

All the springs need to be mapped and secured. It is our responsibility to restore and sustain these springs. Let's bring dying springs back to life and sustain the environment for future generations.

Author is Executive Editor, Greater Kashmir