BREAKING NEWS
In view of climate change and its fall out, revitalizing Srinagar’s water-based urbanism is an essential prerequisite. It shall lay emphasis on restoring city’s “Blue infra”. Its interspersed azure in the form of lakes, wetlands and rivers containing within them the potential remedy to climate change as such need to be conserved through ecological based approach focusing on controlling pollution, need based dredging, checking encroachment, controlled building activity and sustainable land-use pattern.
Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, has historically been an ecologically rich city, shaped by its matchless geography, lakes, wetlands, rivers and green meshes. The traditional planning of the city reflected a deep harmony with nature, where water bodies such as Dal Lake, Nigeen Lake, River Jhelum and various water channels played a overriding role in transport, livelihoods, and urban cooling. Green spaces, including Mughal gardens like Shalimar, Nishat, hills, hillside plantation, embankment plantations, orchards, rich agricultural farms, along with preponderance of chinar trees enhanced the ecological stability, while traditional architecture relied on locally available materials like deodar wood and mud, ensured climate-responsive design. Additionally, wetlands such as Hokersar, Khushal sar, Gill sar, innumerable marshes and interconnected low-lying areas acted as natural flood buffers and biodiversity hubs. However, rapid urbanization, population growth, and unplanned expansion over last fifty years has led to severe ecological degradation, with shrinking water bodies, increasing pollution, deforestation, declining greens, amorphous urban form and inefficient waste management are all threatening the city’s sustainability.
Unplanned Urban Sprawl
Since 1901, Srinagar has undergone significant urban expansion, gradually transforming from a compact settlement centered around the Jhelum River and Dal Lake into a sprawling city. In the early 20th century, the city maintained a balance between built-up areas, water bodies, and green spaces, with extensive wetlands and forests surrounding its core. However, as the population grew, particularly after 1947, urbanization began encroaching on agricultural land and natural ecosystems. The period from 1975 to 2000 saw rapid expansion, with new residential and commercial developments replacing farmlands and wetlands. By the early 21st century, unregulated construction, infrastructure projects, and increased tourism contributed to the large-scale conversion of open spaces into built-up areas, further intensifying ecological degradation.
The impact of this expansion on water bodies has been severe. Dal Lake, which covered approximately 24 square kilometers in the early 1900s, has shrunk significantly due to encroachments, pollution, and siltation, now covering only around 10 to 12 square kilometers. Similarly, the Hokersar, Khushal Sar, Gill Sar, marshy areas of Lasjan, Batamaloo, Mahjoor Nagar, Bemina, Mujgund, Mirgund, Narakara,Tengen,Lasjan,Shalin, and other Wetlands, once a thriving bird habitat and natural flood absorbers, have either been lost/in the process of being lost speedy unplanned urban accretion and encroachments, polluted drainage and to growing requirements of urban infra. The floodplains of the Jhelum River have also been narrowed due to land reclamation for construction, reducing its ability to regulate flooding and worsening the city's vulnerability to climate events. The Doodhganga basin has also been encroached at many places under the nose of the concerned authorities. The quality of water in almost all the water bodies has radically declined due very high dose of pollution added either through pumping of black/gray waters or draining of urban sewage without treatment.
Declining City Sponge
Green spaces and plantation areas have also seen a drastic decline. The city's once-abundant urban forests and agricultural lands have been steadily replaced by expanding neighborhoods and commercial hubs. Encroachments into the Zabarwan hills and surrounding forested areas have led to deforestation, negatively impacting biodiversity and worsening the urban heat island effect. The development in the immediate vicinity of Dachigam sanctuary against all wildlife laws is adversely affecting biodiversity in the area. As a result, Srinagar has experienced rising temperatures, increased air pollution, and a decline in overall environmental resilience.
The impact on air quality has also been severe. Green spaces act as natural filters, absorbing pollutants and improving air circulation, but their decline has resulted in higher pollution levels, trapping dust, emissions, and toxins in the atmosphere. This is particularly problematic in areas dominated by built-up structures and tin roofing, where the lack of vegetation leads to stagnant air and worsened respiratory health conditions. Additionally, the loss of wetlands and green belts has caused a decline in urban biodiversity, displacing birds, pollinators, and small mammals that relied on these habitats. This ecological imbalance further weakens natural ecosystem services, making Srinagar more vulnerable to environmental stressors. The decline in urban green spaces, the loss of natural sponge areas, and the increasing built-up areas with tin roofing have significantly impacted the environment not only within the city but also far beyond its urban milieu, leading to rising temperatures, increased flooding, deteriorating air quality, and weakened climate resilience. As green cover has diminished, Srinagar experiences a extreme heat due to urban heat island effect, where built-up surfaces, especially concrete structures and tin roofs, absorb and retain heat, causing higher daytime and nighttime temperatures. Tin roofing, commonly found in informal settlements and expanding urban areas, further exacerbates heat buildup, making urban spaces hotter and increasing energy consumption for cooling. The reduction of sponge areas, such as wetlands and permeable soils, has also led to increased surface runoff during rainfall, overwhelming drainage systems and causing frequent urban flooding. Without sufficient green spaces to absorb rainwater, groundwater recharge is significantly reduced, leading to long-term water scarcity and reliance on unsustainable extraction methods. The embankment plantation which once provided an exquisite look to the landscape and acted as the major heat sinks and habitat for rich biodiversity have almost been lost to the development works and flood protection measures after 2014 flood which devastated the whole Srinagar and almost 80 percent of the city was damaged with colossal infrastructural distraught.
A data-driven approach ensures that cities grow sustainably without compromising their natural resilience. By combining satellite imagery, AI-based predictive modeling, and smart land use policies, urban planners can create climate-adaptive cities that mitigate heat stress and manage urban expansion effectively. To address these challenges, a data-driven approach using GIS and remote sensing can help monitor land-use changes and guide sustainable urban planning. Strict zoning regulations, wetland conservation policies, and afforestation programs are essential to restoring Srinagar’s ecological balance while accommodating future growth. By integrating smart urban design with nature-based solutions, the city can mitigate the environmental damage of past decades and move towards a more sustainable and climate-resilient future
Furthermore, the expansion of poorly planned built-up areas with tin roofs creates structural and energy inefficiencies. Tin roofs offer little insulation, making homes excessively hot in summer and cold in winter, increasing dependence on artificial heating and cooling, which further contributes to carbon emissions. In areas prone to heavy rainfall or extreme weather, these structures are also highly vulnerable to damage, posing additional risks to residents.
Addressing these challenges requires a shift towards integrative sustainable urban and regional planning, emphasizing the restoration of green spaces, the protection of wetlands, and the integration of climate-resilient infrastructure. Expanding urban forests, promoting green roofs, enforcing permeable surface zoning, and adopting reflective and insulated roofing materials can help mitigate heat buildup and improve climate adaptation. Additionally, implementing rainwater harvesting systems and strengthening storm water management can reduce flooding risks while supporting groundwater recharge. By integrating data-driven planning and nature-based solutions, cities can balance growth with environmental sustainability, ensuring a more resilient and livable future. To transform Srinagar into an ecological city, a strategic shift toward sustainable urban planning is essential.
Revitalizing Water Based Urbanism
Promoting water-based urbanism in Srinagar can be achieved by integrating the city's rich water resources—like Dal and Lake, Nigeen Lake, and the Jhelum River—into urban planning in a sustainable and functional manner. A key step is revitalizing and preserving these water bodies through efforts like cleaning up Dal Lake and improving waste management systems to protect the ecosystem. Alongside this, water management practices such as rainwater harvesting and sustainable storm water management need to be made vital part of the urban infrastructure. One approach to water-based urbanism is promoting water-based transportation need to be introduced (like Shikaras traditional boats) to reduce congestion and pollution while preserving cultural heritage. Creating sustainable waterfront developments with pedestrian-friendly walkways, cultural spaces, and recreational areas along the rivers and lakes would go long way to encourage public to be considerate towards water bodies. Additionally, introducing floating markets and water-based commerce can benefit local businesses and tourism.
Urban design should embrace water, integrating eco-friendly housing developments along the water's edge, including green infrastructure like floating parks and rooftop gardens. These designs can avoid harming water bodies while offering aesthetic and functional spaces for residents. Promoting water-based recreation like kayaking and boat tours can also boost tourism and provide locals with unique ways to enjoy water. Educational initiatives about water conservation and waste management can help raise public awareness and ensure residents understand their role in maintaining water bodies. Community-driven projects, where local people take ownership of water bodies near their homes, can foster a sense of responsibility and involvement. Moreover, integrating smart water management systems, such as flood prediction tools and sensors for real-time data, can ensure efficient and sustainable water use in urban areas. With flood management strategies integrated into urban planning, Srinagar can build resilience against flooding while maintaining the integrity of its water systems. To make this vision a reality, it’s essential to collaborate with experts in urban planning, environmental science, and design, while encouraging partnerships between government, private sector, and local communities. The development of policies that focus on water preservation, eco-friendly construction, and incentives for sustainable building practices would further support water-based urbanism. By combining these efforts, Srinagar can evolve into a city that celebrates its water resources, fostering both sustainability and growth. Ensuring the sustainability and resilience of Srinagar requires a strategic approach that balances urban growth with ecological preservation. The city has witnessed rapid expansion, declining green cover, shrinking wetlands, and increasing climate vulnerabilities, making it essential to adopt data-driven and nature-based solutions. Strengthening urban green infrastructure through large-scale afforestation, green corridors, and vertical gardens can help mitigate the urban heat island effect, improve air quality, and enhance biodiversity. Public parks and tree-lined streets should be prioritized in city planning to ensure an even distribution of green spaces. At the same time, the conservation of wetlands and water bodies such as Dal Lake and Hokersar Wetland is critical. Strict anti-encroachment laws, ecological restoration projects, and sustainable sewage management systems are necessary to prevent further degradation. Restoring natural floodplains and traditional water channels will improve Srinagar’s resilience to flooding.
Way Forward
In view of climate change and its fall out, revitalizing Srinagar’s water-based urbanism is an essential prerequisite. It shall lay emphasis on restoring city’s “Blue infra”. Its interspersed azure in the form of lakes, wetlands and rivers containing within them the potential remedy to climate change as such need to be conserved through ecological based approach focusing on controlling pollution, need based dredging, checking encroachment, controlled building activity and sustainable land-use pattern. Wetland conservation is decisive for city’s flood resilience and combating water scarcity. Blue/Green infrastructure like urban forests and sustainable housing are necessary to improve air quality and need to be made inseparable part urban land use for bestowing Srinagar a functional urban form. Also smart waste management and climate-resilient and efficient urban design hold key for its sustainability. Efforts have to made to promote low-carbon lifestyles with pedestrian pathways and electric transport enhances livability. In addition, urban planning has necessarily to be made data-driven approach to help track land temperature and identify areas for ecological restoration. Conservation of wetlands and strict zoning laws legislation is must and essential, along with transitioning to renewable energy and effective waste management. Above all community engagements and the integration of modern planning tools with traditional wisdom shall act as a vital basis for carving a sustainable future.
Email:-----------------------hamwani24@gmail.com
In view of climate change and its fall out, revitalizing Srinagar’s water-based urbanism is an essential prerequisite. It shall lay emphasis on restoring city’s “Blue infra”. Its interspersed azure in the form of lakes, wetlands and rivers containing within them the potential remedy to climate change as such need to be conserved through ecological based approach focusing on controlling pollution, need based dredging, checking encroachment, controlled building activity and sustainable land-use pattern.
Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, has historically been an ecologically rich city, shaped by its matchless geography, lakes, wetlands, rivers and green meshes. The traditional planning of the city reflected a deep harmony with nature, where water bodies such as Dal Lake, Nigeen Lake, River Jhelum and various water channels played a overriding role in transport, livelihoods, and urban cooling. Green spaces, including Mughal gardens like Shalimar, Nishat, hills, hillside plantation, embankment plantations, orchards, rich agricultural farms, along with preponderance of chinar trees enhanced the ecological stability, while traditional architecture relied on locally available materials like deodar wood and mud, ensured climate-responsive design. Additionally, wetlands such as Hokersar, Khushal sar, Gill sar, innumerable marshes and interconnected low-lying areas acted as natural flood buffers and biodiversity hubs. However, rapid urbanization, population growth, and unplanned expansion over last fifty years has led to severe ecological degradation, with shrinking water bodies, increasing pollution, deforestation, declining greens, amorphous urban form and inefficient waste management are all threatening the city’s sustainability.
Unplanned Urban Sprawl
Since 1901, Srinagar has undergone significant urban expansion, gradually transforming from a compact settlement centered around the Jhelum River and Dal Lake into a sprawling city. In the early 20th century, the city maintained a balance between built-up areas, water bodies, and green spaces, with extensive wetlands and forests surrounding its core. However, as the population grew, particularly after 1947, urbanization began encroaching on agricultural land and natural ecosystems. The period from 1975 to 2000 saw rapid expansion, with new residential and commercial developments replacing farmlands and wetlands. By the early 21st century, unregulated construction, infrastructure projects, and increased tourism contributed to the large-scale conversion of open spaces into built-up areas, further intensifying ecological degradation.
The impact of this expansion on water bodies has been severe. Dal Lake, which covered approximately 24 square kilometers in the early 1900s, has shrunk significantly due to encroachments, pollution, and siltation, now covering only around 10 to 12 square kilometers. Similarly, the Hokersar, Khushal Sar, Gill Sar, marshy areas of Lasjan, Batamaloo, Mahjoor Nagar, Bemina, Mujgund, Mirgund, Narakara,Tengen,Lasjan,Shalin, and other Wetlands, once a thriving bird habitat and natural flood absorbers, have either been lost/in the process of being lost speedy unplanned urban accretion and encroachments, polluted drainage and to growing requirements of urban infra. The floodplains of the Jhelum River have also been narrowed due to land reclamation for construction, reducing its ability to regulate flooding and worsening the city's vulnerability to climate events. The Doodhganga basin has also been encroached at many places under the nose of the concerned authorities. The quality of water in almost all the water bodies has radically declined due very high dose of pollution added either through pumping of black/gray waters or draining of urban sewage without treatment.
Declining City Sponge
Green spaces and plantation areas have also seen a drastic decline. The city's once-abundant urban forests and agricultural lands have been steadily replaced by expanding neighborhoods and commercial hubs. Encroachments into the Zabarwan hills and surrounding forested areas have led to deforestation, negatively impacting biodiversity and worsening the urban heat island effect. The development in the immediate vicinity of Dachigam sanctuary against all wildlife laws is adversely affecting biodiversity in the area. As a result, Srinagar has experienced rising temperatures, increased air pollution, and a decline in overall environmental resilience.
The impact on air quality has also been severe. Green spaces act as natural filters, absorbing pollutants and improving air circulation, but their decline has resulted in higher pollution levels, trapping dust, emissions, and toxins in the atmosphere. This is particularly problematic in areas dominated by built-up structures and tin roofing, where the lack of vegetation leads to stagnant air and worsened respiratory health conditions. Additionally, the loss of wetlands and green belts has caused a decline in urban biodiversity, displacing birds, pollinators, and small mammals that relied on these habitats. This ecological imbalance further weakens natural ecosystem services, making Srinagar more vulnerable to environmental stressors. The decline in urban green spaces, the loss of natural sponge areas, and the increasing built-up areas with tin roofing have significantly impacted the environment not only within the city but also far beyond its urban milieu, leading to rising temperatures, increased flooding, deteriorating air quality, and weakened climate resilience. As green cover has diminished, Srinagar experiences a extreme heat due to urban heat island effect, where built-up surfaces, especially concrete structures and tin roofs, absorb and retain heat, causing higher daytime and nighttime temperatures. Tin roofing, commonly found in informal settlements and expanding urban areas, further exacerbates heat buildup, making urban spaces hotter and increasing energy consumption for cooling. The reduction of sponge areas, such as wetlands and permeable soils, has also led to increased surface runoff during rainfall, overwhelming drainage systems and causing frequent urban flooding. Without sufficient green spaces to absorb rainwater, groundwater recharge is significantly reduced, leading to long-term water scarcity and reliance on unsustainable extraction methods. The embankment plantation which once provided an exquisite look to the landscape and acted as the major heat sinks and habitat for rich biodiversity have almost been lost to the development works and flood protection measures after 2014 flood which devastated the whole Srinagar and almost 80 percent of the city was damaged with colossal infrastructural distraught.
A data-driven approach ensures that cities grow sustainably without compromising their natural resilience. By combining satellite imagery, AI-based predictive modeling, and smart land use policies, urban planners can create climate-adaptive cities that mitigate heat stress and manage urban expansion effectively. To address these challenges, a data-driven approach using GIS and remote sensing can help monitor land-use changes and guide sustainable urban planning. Strict zoning regulations, wetland conservation policies, and afforestation programs are essential to restoring Srinagar’s ecological balance while accommodating future growth. By integrating smart urban design with nature-based solutions, the city can mitigate the environmental damage of past decades and move towards a more sustainable and climate-resilient future
Furthermore, the expansion of poorly planned built-up areas with tin roofs creates structural and energy inefficiencies. Tin roofs offer little insulation, making homes excessively hot in summer and cold in winter, increasing dependence on artificial heating and cooling, which further contributes to carbon emissions. In areas prone to heavy rainfall or extreme weather, these structures are also highly vulnerable to damage, posing additional risks to residents.
Addressing these challenges requires a shift towards integrative sustainable urban and regional planning, emphasizing the restoration of green spaces, the protection of wetlands, and the integration of climate-resilient infrastructure. Expanding urban forests, promoting green roofs, enforcing permeable surface zoning, and adopting reflective and insulated roofing materials can help mitigate heat buildup and improve climate adaptation. Additionally, implementing rainwater harvesting systems and strengthening storm water management can reduce flooding risks while supporting groundwater recharge. By integrating data-driven planning and nature-based solutions, cities can balance growth with environmental sustainability, ensuring a more resilient and livable future. To transform Srinagar into an ecological city, a strategic shift toward sustainable urban planning is essential.
Revitalizing Water Based Urbanism
Promoting water-based urbanism in Srinagar can be achieved by integrating the city's rich water resources—like Dal and Lake, Nigeen Lake, and the Jhelum River—into urban planning in a sustainable and functional manner. A key step is revitalizing and preserving these water bodies through efforts like cleaning up Dal Lake and improving waste management systems to protect the ecosystem. Alongside this, water management practices such as rainwater harvesting and sustainable storm water management need to be made vital part of the urban infrastructure. One approach to water-based urbanism is promoting water-based transportation need to be introduced (like Shikaras traditional boats) to reduce congestion and pollution while preserving cultural heritage. Creating sustainable waterfront developments with pedestrian-friendly walkways, cultural spaces, and recreational areas along the rivers and lakes would go long way to encourage public to be considerate towards water bodies. Additionally, introducing floating markets and water-based commerce can benefit local businesses and tourism.
Urban design should embrace water, integrating eco-friendly housing developments along the water's edge, including green infrastructure like floating parks and rooftop gardens. These designs can avoid harming water bodies while offering aesthetic and functional spaces for residents. Promoting water-based recreation like kayaking and boat tours can also boost tourism and provide locals with unique ways to enjoy water. Educational initiatives about water conservation and waste management can help raise public awareness and ensure residents understand their role in maintaining water bodies. Community-driven projects, where local people take ownership of water bodies near their homes, can foster a sense of responsibility and involvement. Moreover, integrating smart water management systems, such as flood prediction tools and sensors for real-time data, can ensure efficient and sustainable water use in urban areas. With flood management strategies integrated into urban planning, Srinagar can build resilience against flooding while maintaining the integrity of its water systems. To make this vision a reality, it’s essential to collaborate with experts in urban planning, environmental science, and design, while encouraging partnerships between government, private sector, and local communities. The development of policies that focus on water preservation, eco-friendly construction, and incentives for sustainable building practices would further support water-based urbanism. By combining these efforts, Srinagar can evolve into a city that celebrates its water resources, fostering both sustainability and growth. Ensuring the sustainability and resilience of Srinagar requires a strategic approach that balances urban growth with ecological preservation. The city has witnessed rapid expansion, declining green cover, shrinking wetlands, and increasing climate vulnerabilities, making it essential to adopt data-driven and nature-based solutions. Strengthening urban green infrastructure through large-scale afforestation, green corridors, and vertical gardens can help mitigate the urban heat island effect, improve air quality, and enhance biodiversity. Public parks and tree-lined streets should be prioritized in city planning to ensure an even distribution of green spaces. At the same time, the conservation of wetlands and water bodies such as Dal Lake and Hokersar Wetland is critical. Strict anti-encroachment laws, ecological restoration projects, and sustainable sewage management systems are necessary to prevent further degradation. Restoring natural floodplains and traditional water channels will improve Srinagar’s resilience to flooding.
Way Forward
In view of climate change and its fall out, revitalizing Srinagar’s water-based urbanism is an essential prerequisite. It shall lay emphasis on restoring city’s “Blue infra”. Its interspersed azure in the form of lakes, wetlands and rivers containing within them the potential remedy to climate change as such need to be conserved through ecological based approach focusing on controlling pollution, need based dredging, checking encroachment, controlled building activity and sustainable land-use pattern. Wetland conservation is decisive for city’s flood resilience and combating water scarcity. Blue/Green infrastructure like urban forests and sustainable housing are necessary to improve air quality and need to be made inseparable part urban land use for bestowing Srinagar a functional urban form. Also smart waste management and climate-resilient and efficient urban design hold key for its sustainability. Efforts have to made to promote low-carbon lifestyles with pedestrian pathways and electric transport enhances livability. In addition, urban planning has necessarily to be made data-driven approach to help track land temperature and identify areas for ecological restoration. Conservation of wetlands and strict zoning laws legislation is must and essential, along with transitioning to renewable energy and effective waste management. Above all community engagements and the integration of modern planning tools with traditional wisdom shall act as a vital basis for carving a sustainable future.
Email:-----------------------hamwani24@gmail.com
© Copyright 2023 brighterkashmir.com All Rights Reserved. Quantum Technologies