Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Jan 16: An unprecedented dry winter and the growing impact of climate change have triggered an alarming water crisis across several parts of Kashmir, with water levels in major rivers, rivulets and springs dipping to record lows, severely affecting drinking water supply schemes.
Many famous and historically reliable springs, including Aripal, Nagbal, and Bulbul Nag in Newa, Pulwama, have either completely dried up or witnessed a drastic reduction in discharge. These natural springs have long served as the backbone of multiple water supply schemes, catering to thousands of households in south Kashmir, and the same is the case in other areas of Kashmir.
Residents told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the drying up of these springs has left entire localities struggling for potable water, forcing people, especially women and children, to walk long distances in search of water.
“Aripal spring was considered a lifeline for us. We had never imagined that one day it would run dry. This is happening due to climate change and a completely dry winter,” said Abdul Rashid, a local. “Now we are dependent on tankers, which are irregular and insufficient.”
The situation is equally grim along the River Jhelum and Rambiara rivulet, where water levels have dropped significantly. Dozens of water supply schemes across multiple districts draw water from these sources, but the reduced flow has rendered many schemes partially or completely non-functional
“Water in Rambiara has gone down to such an extent that pumping stations are unable to operate properly,” said Mohammad Ashraf, a resident of Litter area of Pulwama. “We receive water for a few minutes, if at all, and sometimes there is no supply for days.”
To cope with the crisis, authorities have pressed tanker services into operation. However, locals say tanker supply has failed to meet the growing demand. In many areas, tankers reach households only once every two to three days, worsening the hardship.
“A single tanker cannot serve an entire village,” said Nusrat Jan, a resident of Newa area. “We wait for days, and by the time the tanker arrives, people rush with buckets and containers. It often leads to arguments and chaos.”
Residents also expressed concern over the long-term implications of climate change, pointing out that the region’s traditional water sources are no longer reliable.
“Climate change is no longer a theory; it is our reality,” said Ghulam Nabi, a social activist from Pulwama. “Every passing year, winters are getting drier, snowfall is declining, and our water sources are disappearing.”
Locals have urged the government to take immediate and long-term measures, including the creation of alternative water sources, revival of traditional springs, rainwater harvesting, and strengthening groundwater recharge mechanisms.
“The government must plan for the future,” said Abdul Salam, another local. “Temporary tanker services are not a solution. We need sustainable water sources because climate change is here to stay.”
Experts warn that if the current dry spell continues and comprehensive mitigation measures are not undertaken, Kashmir could face a severe drinking water crisis in the coming months, affecting both rural and urban populations.
Officials requested the public to use water judiciously as of now, saying that alternative sources are being looked into. The situation is expected to ease out as there is a prediction of rain and snow in the coming days, which is expected to recharge water bodies—(KNO)
