Every year, on March 22, the world observes World Water Day to highlight the importance of freshwater and advocate for the sustainable management of water resources. This year, as global discussions focus on water conservation, we in Kashmir must reflect on its own water crisis and the need for sustainable action. Kashmir has often been described as a paradise on Earth, not only because of its breathtaking landscapes but also due to its rich water resources. The Jhelum River, Dal Lake, Wular Lake, and countless springs and glaciers have historically provided ample water for drinking, agriculture, and hydropower generation. However, despite this apparent abundance, we are grappling with serious water-related challenges that threaten both our ecology and livelihoods. Climate change, pollution, and unchecked urbanization have put immense pressure on Kashmir’s water bodies. Glaciers in the Himalayas, which feed Kashmir’s rivers, are receding at alarming rates due to rising temperatures. According to environmental experts, this could lead to severe water shortages in the coming decades, impacting not just Kashmir but also the downstream regions of Pakistan and northern India, which depend on these rivers. Additionally, Kashmir’s lakes, once symbols of pristine beauty, are now struggling with pollution and encroachment. Dal Lake and Wular Lake have shrunk significantly due to illegal construction, sewage inflow, and siltation. The unchecked use of pesticides and fertilizers in agriculture has also led to contamination of groundwater sources, posing a serious health risk to our residents. On World Water Day, it is imperative to recognize that water security is not just a global challenge but a local one as well. The theme for World Water Day 2024, “Water for Peace”, holds particular significance for us in Kashmir, as water has often been a contentious issue in the broader regional conflict. The Indus Waters Treaty (1960) between India and Pakistan, which governs the sharing of Kashmir’s rivers, underscores how critical water is for regional stability. To secure our water future, Kashmir needs a multi-pronged approach. Strict enforcement of environmental laws is essential to prevent encroachments and pollution. Traditional water conservation practices, such as recharging groundwater through ponds and springs, must be revived. Wastewater treatment and sustainable tourism policies should be prioritized to protect iconic water bodies. World Water Day serves as a reminder that water is not just a resource but a lifeline. If steps are not taken now, Kashmir’s future generations may face severe water scarcity. The time to act is today—before our natural abundance turns into an ecological crisis.