Kashmir — often described as “Paradise on Earth” — is now facing the heat, quite literally. Once known for its cool breezes, snow-covered peaks, and lush green meadows, the region is increasingly becoming a victim of rising temperatures and erratic weather patterns due to climate change. What was once a land of eternal springs and calm winters is now facing extreme heatwaves, drying rivers, and disappearing glaciers — a clear signal that something is terribly wrong.

A Look into the Past

Only a few decades ago, the climate in Kashmir was moderate and predictable. The summers were pleasant, the winters were snowy and charming, and the four distinct seasons added to its majestic beauty. Temperatures in Srinagar, the summer capital, rarely crossed 30°C in the past. The snow would start melting gradually in spring, feeding rivers and sustaining the region’s natural balance. The famous Dal Lake and the Jhelum River flowed steadily, with little fear of floods or drought.
Farmers planted rice and saffron with the confidence that rain would fall at the right time. Tourists came not only for the scenic landscapes but also to escape the heat of Indian plains. However, the story today is alarmingly different.

The Rising Heat and Changing Weather

Over the last two decades, Kashmir has witnessed an undeniable rise in average temperatures. In recent summers, the mercury has soared beyond 35°C, a figure once considered unimaginable for the valley. Winters, too, are changing — becoming shorter and warmer, with less snowfall and more erratic rain. This shift is directly affecting agriculture, horticulture, and water availability.
Reports from the Indian Meteorological Department and independent climate research bodies have revealed that the region’s glaciers — particularly those in the Himalayas — are receding at an alarming rate. These glaciers are crucial, as they feed the valley’s rivers and are the lifeline of both the ecosystem and the people.

Unseen Consequences: From Ecology to Economy

Climate change in Kashmir is not just a matter of rising temperature; it’s a matter of survival. Apple orchards are flowering early, leading to a mismatch in pollination. The timing of sowing and harvesting crops has become unpredictable. Frequent droughts and sudden floods are destroying livelihoods.

Forests are also under stress. Once-rich biodiversity is slowly fading away. Wild animals, unable to cope with changing habitats, are moving toward populated areas, leading to human-wildlife conflicts.
The tourism industry — a major pillar of the Kashmiri economy — is also at risk. Melting snow means shorter ski seasons. Unseasonal rainfall disturbs travel plans. The scenic beauty that once pulled tourists is gradually losing its natural rhythm.

A Wake-Up Call for the Authorities and the People

The situation is alarming and demands immediate attention. Policymakers must realize that climate change is not a distant threat; it is happening here and now. There is an urgent need for region-specific climate adaptation strategies. This includes:
Promoting afforestation and halting illegal deforestation.
Protecting water bodies from pollution and encroachment.
Encouraging eco-friendly tourism practices.
Educating the local population on sustainable agricultural practices.
Monitoring glacier retreat and river flow through scientific methods.
Additionally, individuals must also do their part. From conserving electricity to avoiding unnecessary use of fossil fuels, every small action matters.
Conclusion: Kashmir is no longer untouched by the climate crisis. The increasing heat, erratic weather, and environmental degradation are warning signs that we can’t afford to ignore. If steps are not taken now, the paradise we once knew could become a tale of the past. Let this be a wake-up call — for governments, citizens, and the global community — to act before it is too late.
Because if we lose Kashmir to climate change, we lose not just beauty — we lose balance, culture, and a symbol of nature’s delicate harmony.

Email:--------------------------amanuk653@gmail.com