Srinagar, Jan 09 (BANN): The River Jhelum, often referred to as Kashmir’s lifeline, is experiencing one of its lowest water levels ever recorded, highlighting the severe impacts of climate change in the region.
Data obtained by BANN reveals that Jhelum’s water levels have plummeted to alarming depths at several key points. At Sangam, the river is flowing at a concerning -0.75 feet, while at Ram Munshi Bagh, the level stands at 3.73 feet, and at Asham, it is at 1.08 feet. These figures point to an unprecedented drop for this time of year.
Smaller tributaries, including Lidder and Rambiara streams, are also facing critical lows. At Batkote, the Lidder is flowing at -0.38 meters, and Rambiara at Wachi is at -0.47 meters, reflecting the broader crisis.
An official from the Irrigation and Flood Control Department explained, “The Jhelum is experiencing below-zero flow levels. The river relies heavily on glacier-fed water, but prolonged dry spells in Kashmir have significantly reduced their contribution.” He also noted that several water supply schemes across the region are being severely impacted.
Independent meteorologist Faizan Arif Keng attributed the situation to an ongoing dry spell since October. “The Jhelum recorded a historic low of -1.0 feet earlier this season,” he said. He further pointed out that the region has experienced below-average precipitation during the critical winter months over the past five years, hampering the replenishment of glaciers.
Rising temperatures and reduced rainfall during both summer and winter have accelerated glacier melting, diminishing their size and reducing water availability. Keng warned that irregular weather patterns and rising temperatures are likely to persist, posing a significant threat to water security in the region.
Another environmental expert noted that Jammu and Kashmir has already lost 30% of its glaciers over the past six decades. If this trend continues, up to 70% of the glaciers could disappear by the end of the century. “There are approximately 18,000 glaciers across Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh, and all are shrinking due to rising temperatures. This is part of a larger pattern affecting the entire Himalayan region,” the expert stated.
Dr. Irfan Rashid, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Earth Sciences at the University of Kashmir, highlighted research showing that the Kolahoi Glacier, the largest in Kashmir, has melted by 25% since the 1960s. “The glacier has been receding at a rate of 35 meters annually,” he said, adding that it is also one of the fastest-melting glaciers in the region.
Projections indicate a temperature rise of 4 to 7 degrees Celsius by the end of the century, which would accelerate glacier melting further. These findings underline the urgent need for measures to address the escalating climate crisis and its impact on Kashmir’s fragile water resources.
