Srinagar: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has expressed deep concern over the severe impact of climate change and irregular weather patterns on Kashmir’s economy, urging immediate action to safeguard both environmental and economic interests.
The Chamber highlighted that recent climate-related disruptions have severely affected multiple sectors. As the region approaches summer, the drying of springs and diminishing water bodies has raised serious concerns about water availability. These challenges are compounded by climate change, deforestation, pollution, and mismanagement of natural resources. Negligible rain and snowfall, combined with the rapid melting of glaciers, are expected to have serious consequences for agriculture, horticulture, and other economic activities.
One of the most alarming effects has been an unprecedented 80 per cent reduction in hydroelectric power generation, leading to severe disruptions in both industrial and residential electricity supply. The tourism sector, a major economic driver, has also suffered due to minimal snowfall at key winter destinations.
The postponement of the prestigious Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg due to insufficient snow coverage has further harmed adventure tourism and the region’s global reputation.
International tourism, particularly in the adventure and recreational segments, has seen a substantial decline, impacting foreign exchange earnings and employment.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has acknowledged these challenges, warning that Jammu and Kashmir is facing a severe water crisis this year. He noted that the situation has developed over several years and raised concerns about the accountability of senior officials responsible for managing the region’s resources.
To address these pressing issues, KCCI has announced plans to conduct extensive seminars and programmes with key stakeholders to develop and implement climate change mitigation strategies. The Chamber has called for urgent conservation efforts to protect Kashmir’s water bodies, rivers, wetlands, and lakes, stressing that immediate intervention is necessary.
KCCI has also urged the government to formulate a contingency plan under the leadership of the Chief Minister and allocate sufficient funds in the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir Budget to tackle the crisis.
The Chamber emphasised that the future of Kashmir’s economy depends on swift and decisive action to address these environmental challenges.
