The Environmental Policy Group (EPG), in collaboration with the Institution of Engineers (India), Jammu & Kashmir State Centre (IEIJKSC), has formally submitted a comprehensive set of policy recommendations to J&K government aimed at addressing the severe impacts of climate change in Jammu and Kashmir. This initiative follows a critical workshop titled “Water, Weather, and Well-Being: Climate Change in the Kashmir Valley,” conducted on March 1, 2025.
The workshop aimed to delve into the profound effects of climate change on vital sectors including water resources, agriculture, public health, economy, and infrastructure development within the region. The discussions highlighted that Jammu and Kashmir is currently experiencing significant climatic changes characterized by erratic weather patterns, reduced precipitation, and rising temperatures. Despite its minimal contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions, the region faces severe climate challenges that exacerbate existing vulnerabilities and pose new risks.
Following the workshop, the team of experts compiled recommendations that represent a collective consensus from experts and stakeholders that aim to strategically address these climate-induced challenges. The measures proposed include sustainable water management practices to combat declining water levels and groundwater depletion, as well as to control pollution stemming from industrial effluents and agricultural runoff. There is an urgent need to enforce regulations against illegal mining activities that disrupt natural water flows and degrade ecosystems.
In light of the agricultural sector's vulnerability, the recommendations emphasize promoting climate-resilient agricultural practices, including developing drought-resistant crop varieties and supporting crop diversification. These steps are essential to safeguard food security and enhance farmers' livelihoods in the face of unpredictable climate conditions. Additionally, the report stresses the importance of enhancing public health infrastructure to tackle emerging health risks associated with climate change, such as heat-related illnesses and vector-borne diseases.
The tourism sector, a critical component of the regional economy, has also been dramatically impacted by climate change, particularly due to declining snowfall and altering weather patterns. The recommendations suggest promoting eco-tourism and diversifying economic activities to reduce reliance on traditional tourism, which is susceptible to climatic variability.
There is a pressing call for urban planning initiatives that incorporate climate resilience into infrastructure development, advocating for flood-resistant construction and sustainable urban water management systems. The recommendations underscore the necessity for a dedicated Climate Resilience Task Force to oversee the implementation of these policies, monitor progress, and ensure adherence to environmental regulations.
The EPG urges the government to consider these recommendations seriously, as their implementation will significantly contribute to the sustainable management of the region’s environmental resources. By doing so, it would enhance resilience in vulnerable sectors, promote sustainable economic diversification, and safeguard public health in Jammu and Kashmir.
We assure our full cooperation and support to the government in realizing these vital objectives for a sustainable future