Srinagar, Mar 3: The Environmental Policy Group (EPG), in collaboration with The Institution of Engineers (India), Jammu & Kashmir State Centre, organized a workshop on "Water, Weather, and Well-Being: Climate Change in the Kashmir Valley," highlighting the pressing environmental challenges facing the region.
Vice Chancellor of Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Professor Shakil Romshoo, who was the chief guest, stressed that Kashmir, despite contributing minimally to global emissions, is disproportionately suffering from climate change. He cited alarming trends such as erratic precipitation, prolonged dry spells, and rising temperatures, which are impacting water resources and agriculture, particularly saffron cultivation.
International development specialist Arjumund Hussain Talib warned that Jammu & Kashmir is projected to face a 60% food deficit due to climate change. He advocated for an "Environmental Cess" to fund adaptation and mitigation efforts, particularly targeting high-pollution industries like tourism and construction.
Dr. Khurshid Iqbal, former head of cardiology at SKIMS, linked rising respiratory illnesses to environmental degradation, poor air quality, and increased pollution. RTI activist Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat raised alarm over the impending water crisis, warning that by 2030, clean drinking water may become scarce due to pollution and unregulated mining.
Experts, including scientist Maajid Farooq and former SMC Commissioner Dr. GN Qasba, stressed the importance of data-driven policy decisions, urban planning, and community engagement in climate adaptation. Former Agriculture Director Altaf Ahmad Andrabi emphasized the need for farmers to shift to climate-resilient crops.
The workshop concluded with a commitment to compile key findings into a comprehensive report, which will be submitted to the government for policy implementation. [KNT]
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