Umaisar Gull Ganie
Kulgam, Jan 27: Fresh spells of rain and snowfall have brought much-needed relief to Kashmir, rejuvenating water bodies across the Valley, which had witnessed alarming depletion following a prolonged dry spell.
According to official data obtained by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Jammu and Kashmir recorded an overall rainfall deficit of 85 per cent between November 1 and January 21, receiving only 20.6 mm of rainfall against the normal 139 mm. The deficit had severely impacted springs, streams and rivers, raising concerns over a looming water crisis and drought-like conditions in several areas.
The Veshaw River, a major tributary of the Jhelum in Kulgam district, was among the worst-hit water bodies and had dried up completely.
Officials said fresh precipitation has now led to its revival, raising hopes for the rejuvenation of other major springs across the Valley.
An official from the Jal Shakti department said that water discharge has improved considerably. The drinking water supply pipelines are now functioning smoothly in areas that were earlier affected by low flow, he added.
Farmers termed the snowfall a lifeline after months of dry conditions. “We were deeply worried as our springs had dried up and the soil had lost moisture. This snowfall has revived our hopes and will help recharge groundwater,” said Abdul Rashid, a farmer from Yaripora.
He said the snowfall would prove beneficial for crops and orchards. “Snow acts as a natural fertiliser and also protects crops from frost damage. If such weather continues, it will ensure a good agricultural season ahead,” he added.
Environmental expert Rouf Hamza told KNO that the depletion of water bodies in Kashmir was primarily due to insufficient snowfall this winter. “Snowfall plays a vital role in sustaining and recharging water bodies. The recent snowfall has led to the rejuvenation of these critical water sources,” he said.
He said the snowfall has also recharged Kashmir’s glaciers, often referred to as the Valley’s ‘water banks’. “Glaciers are the lifeline of Kashmir’s economy. Fresh snowfall strengthens glacier mass, ensures sustained river flows during summer and supports agriculture, hydropower and drinking water needs,” Hamza said.
He expressed optimism about the coming months, saying the fresh snowfall would benefit farmers and orchardists alike. “Snow is crucial for Kashmir as it supports agriculture, horticulture and tourism, which form the backbone of the Valley’s economy,” he said.
The expert added, “Snowfall helps protect forests from forest fires, as fires tend to spread throughout the year due to a lack of moisture in the forests. Snow also reflects a good amount of sunlight, which helps reduce global warming.”—(KNO)
