Kashmir is facing an unprecedented heat crisis, leaving locals anxious about their health and dwindling harvests. Farmers like Zaina Begum from Pulwama are struggling to save their paddy fields from drought after waiting over a month for rain. The valley's temperatures have reached record highs, hitting 37.4°C (99.32°F) in June—the hottest in 50 years. While a brief relief from rains was welcomed, experts warn that the respite will be short-lived and further heatwaves are on the horizon.
The erratic weather patterns have severely affected those relying on agriculture, leading to significant financial losses. Begum's family has lost their crops for the last five years due to decreasing rainfall. Similarly, fruit grower Ali Mohammad, who switched from rice to apples two decades ago, now sees his trees wilting due to a lack of water.
The increased heat isn't just affecting farms; it is impacting the health of locals. Residents are facing heat-related health issues, with some requiring hospital visits due to extreme conditions. Experts attribute these climate challenges to global warming and reduced snowfall, which disrupts crucial water supplies.
Environmental changes have led to rampant deforestation, further exacerbating climate impact. Kashmir's urban areas are growing, leading to increased energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Despite reports highlighting these issues, critics argue that climate concerns remain sidelined by local authorities.
Government representatives insist that they are taking climate change seriously but acknowledge it’s a global issue needing collective action. Farmers like Begum, however, feel urgency in finding solutions before it's too late. "Otherwise, we will be doomed," she warned, underscoring the need for immediate action to counter this growing crisis.
The erratic weather patterns have severely affected those relying on agriculture, leading to significant financial losses. Begum's family has lost their crops for the last five years due to decreasing rainfall. Similarly, fruit grower Ali Mohammad, who switched from rice to apples two decades ago, now sees his trees wilting due to a lack of water.
The increased heat isn't just affecting farms; it is impacting the health of locals. Residents are facing heat-related health issues, with some requiring hospital visits due to extreme conditions. Experts attribute these climate challenges to global warming and reduced snowfall, which disrupts crucial water supplies.
Environmental changes have led to rampant deforestation, further exacerbating climate impact. Kashmir's urban areas are growing, leading to increased energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Despite reports highlighting these issues, critics argue that climate concerns remain sidelined by local authorities.
Government representatives insist that they are taking climate change seriously but acknowledge it’s a global issue needing collective action. Farmers like Begum, however, feel urgency in finding solutions before it's too late. "Otherwise, we will be doomed," she warned, underscoring the need for immediate action to counter this growing crisis.
