Srinagar, Aug 28: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr Moulvi Muhammad Umar Farooq has called the recent devastation in Nepal and other parts of the Himalayan region a warning for Jammu and Kashmir, urging greater attention to the protection of the Valley’s fragile environment.
Speaking during the Friday congregation at the historic Jama Masjid Srinagar, Mirwaiz expressed solidarity with the people affected by the floods in Nepal and prayed for those who lost their lives, remain missing or have suffered due to the disaster.
He said Jammu and Kashmir shares the Himalayan ecosystem and has itself experienced intense rainfall, cloudbursts, flash floods and landslides.
While acknowledging climate change as a major factor behind changing weather patterns, Mirwaiz questioned whether unplanned development activities were further increasing the region’s vulnerability to natural disasters.
He expressed concern over extensive construction, tree cutting, mountain blasting and the disruption of natural drainage systems, particularly in environmentally sensitive areas.
Mirwaiz also stressed the importance of protecting wetlands, lakes and flood channels from encroachment. He said these natural systems play an important role in absorbing excess water and reducing the impact of flooding on populated areas.
Referring to Dal Lake, he said its deteriorating condition should serve as a reminder of the consequences of prolonged encroachment, construction and environmental neglect.
He called for greater coordination between authorities, planners, businesses and citizens to protect Kashmir’s mountains, forests, waterways and wetlands.
Mirwaiz also urged authorities to ensure that infrastructure and tourism projects take environmental safeguards into account, saying development should not come at the cost of ecological stability.
“The tragedy in Nepal must be seen as a warning close to home. We too live in the Himalayas,” he said.
He added that environmental protection was essential for safeguarding lives, homes and the future of coming generations.
