Scientists, policy experts pitch for action to protect J&K glaciers

Srinagar, Apr 6: A one-day seminar focusing on glacier preservation was held in Srinagar on Saturday to mark World Water Day. Hosted by the Institution of Engineers (India), J&K State Centre in collaboration with the Environmental Policy Group, the event brought together leading scientists, academicians, engineers, policymakers, and environmentalists who voiced serious concerns about climate change’s impact on Jammu & Kashmir’s glaciers.

In his keynote address, Prof. Dr Shakil A. Romshoo, Vice-Chancellor of Islamic University of Science and Technology, highlighted that mean temperature increases in J&K have significantly exceeded global averages.

“The pace at which our glaciers are receding, especially in high-altitude belts like Pir Panjal and Zanskar, should be an eye-opener,” said Romshoo, who is renowned for his Himalayan climate research. He emphasised the need to translate scientific findings into concrete policies and invest in climate resilience measures.

Development Economist and Ziraat Times Founder Arjimand Hussain presented compelling connections between glacier melt and critical issues including food security, hydropower reliability, and water resource planning. He praised ongoing research at IUST and the University of Kashmir, advocating for an ‘environmental cess’ and meaningful reforms to J&K’s Environmental Impact Assessment regime.

“Research-based evidence is pivotal in bringing about much-needed environmental policy change in J&K,” Hussain stated, noting that many regional environmental challenges require social and ecological approaches beyond engineering solutions.

Er. Ajaz Rasool, Chairman of the Media Committee and a noted Hydraulic Engineering and Environmental Expert, called for Kashmir-based universities and research institutions to develop a publicly accessible comprehensive research database on glaciers across the region’s mountain ranges.

“There is an urgent need for collaborative data systems focused on the region’s unique geography. This database can serve as a scientific backbone for informed climate policy,” he emphasised.

Er. Iftikhar Ahmad Hakim, Chairman of IEI J&K State Centre, acknowledged engineers’ crucial role in developing climate-conscious infrastructure while recognizing limits. “We must accept that not all problems require engineering fixes. Many of our environmental challenges require ecological wisdom,” he stated.

The seminar featured several expert presentations including contributions from Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the Meteorological Department, who detailed the department’s expanded role in climate services and disaster warning systems; Prof. Dr. Parvez Ahmad from KU’s Department of Geography & Disaster Management, who clarified distinctions between weather patterns and long-term climate change; and Dr. Tariq Abdullah from IUST, who presented critical datasets on J&K glacier status and future scenarios.

Faiz Bakshi, Convener of the Environmental Protection Group, made an emotional appeal for cultural transformation in environmental stewardship. “Time is running fast,” he said. “Our culture of inaction and silence needs to end. The preservation of Kashmir’s environment must become our collective moral and civic priority.”

The seminar concluded with a technical Q&A session and closing remarks reaffirming institutional commitments to science-driven policy advocacy for glacier preservation.

The seminar concluded with the distribution of mementoes to the speakers and participants in recognition of their valuable contributions to the discourse on glacier preservation. Dr Jahangeer Ali delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all participants and reiterating the commitment of both IEIJKSC and EPG towards continued engagement with environmental challenges facing the region. A large number of students from Kashmir University, Central University, SP College, Amar Singh College, BlueBells School, SSM College, Woodland School, and students from Leh attended the event.