Climate change seems to be becoming a stark reality as all the 20 districts of Union Territory (UT) of J&K have recorded a massive deficit of winter precipitation (rainfall and snow) in upper reaches. Overall deficiency recorded has been more than 80 per cent with Kathua district worst hit as 97 per cent lesser rainfall has been recorded between January 1 and February 15 this year, according to the data compiled by the Metrological Department.
Overall, the UT has recorded a deficit rainfall of over 80 per cent and as against the normal precipitation of 140 mm, only rainfall of just 30 mm was recorded during these 45 days. As per the data, Jammu district has recorded a deficit rainfall of 94 per cent while Udhampur and Samba districts have recorded a deficiency of 92 per cent each.
Consequently, the day temperatures are rising sharply and in Jammu city the temperature has been hovering at the level of plus 20 degrees Celsius on most days (22 to 23 on some). This has virtually led to speculations about early arrival of summers and harsh days ahead.
Due to scant rain and snowfall, water levels in all the major rivers have dipped sharply. Lesser water in the Chenab has negatively impacted power generation in many generation projects located on the river.
On the other hand, the summer capital Srinagar has recorded a deficit rainfall of 82 per cent during the period while seven other places including Shopian, Reasi, Ramban, Kulgam, Doda, Budgam and Anantnag have recorded a deficiency in between 80 to 89 per cent.
Pulwama, Kupwara, Bandipora and Baramulla districts have a deficiency of between 70 to 79 percent during the period, according to the data. Four districts including Poonch, Rajouri, Kishtwar and Ganderbal have recorded a deficiency in between 60 to 69 per cent.
Generally cloudy weather is expected in Kashmir over the next three days (till Thursday) with the possibility of a brief spell of light rain and snow at isolated higher reaches, Director Meteorological Department Dr Mukhtar Ahmad has said. Late on Thursday evening/night and on Friday, cloudy weather is likely with the possibility of light rain and snow at scattered places. On February 21 and 22 also, there may be some precipitation. However, no significant rain/snow is expected.
In the Kashmir valley, most tributaries of Jhelum River are having very scant flows these, with some even drying up. Consequently, most houseboats, which serve as homes to the Hanji community, are not floating structures but sitting at the bottom of the riverbed.
Reports appearing in several Kasmir-based newspapers talked of forest fires in Anantnag, drying up of springs in Mughal Garden Achabal and such other things. Experts opine that the deficit in precipitation is so sharp that it is unlikely to be covered in the coming days. They expressed concern that this will adversely impact agriculture, horticulture and tourism too in the coming summer. They also warned of drinking water shortages in most areas across the UT.
The Achabal garden was earlier a sight to behold with cascading waterfalls and natural springs. It was built by a Mughal Empress Nur Jahan in the 17th century and later got remodelled by her grand-daughter Jahan Ara. Over a century later, Dogra King Gulab Singh is also believed to have done some renovations and brought about minor changes.
In south Kashmir, Kokernag is another major attraction for tourists. Fortunately, the springs there are sustaining despite the massive rain deficit but the days ahead may pose challenges, according to a local Muneera Begum.
Due to the severe shortage of precipitation all over the UT, Jal Shakti Department which is responsible for water supplies, has been forced to start tanker services in many areas. This forced UT Minister Javed Rana to assure people in a public meeting a couple of days ago that more tankers will soon be pressed into service. It needs to be mentioned here that tankers are usually used to supply water only after the month of May.
