The winter season in Indian-held Kashmir, known for its iconic snow-capped mountains, has yet to witness its first snowfall, sparking concerns about the potential devastating impact of global warming and climate change.
The picturesque valley, typically blanketed in snow during the peak winter season from December 21 to January 29, is currently described as “brown and barren,” according to BBC News. This lack of snowfall has alarmed locals and experts alike, with some calling it unprecedented.
Manzoor Ahmad, a 50-year-old hotel manager in Gulmarg, expressed his astonishment, stating that in his 17 years of professional life, he has never witnessed a season without snow. The absence of snow has taken a toll on tourism, with officials reporting a nearly 50% decrease in tourist numbers compared to the previous year during the same period.
The tourism industry, which contributes seven percent to the region’s GDP, has been severely impacted, leading to a significant economic downturn. Experts warn that a snowless winter could have disastrous consequences for the region’s economy, affecting not only tourism but also farming and water supply, as meager snowfall will fail to replenish groundwater reserves adequately.
Climate change is believed to be a major factor, causing extreme weather events and prolonged dry spells in both winter and summer. Recent temperatures in the valley have been unusually warm, with a six to eight degrees Celsius rise recorded at most stations. The weather department reported a significant decline in rainfall, with a 79% decrease in December and a 100% decline in January.
Tourists have been canceling reservations, and hotel owners report a decline in new bookings. Aqib Chaya, president of Gulmarg Hoteliers Club, stated that over 40% of hotel reservations have been canceled, and new bookings are on hold.
The impact goes beyond tourism; it is affecting local businesses that rely on winter tourism for survival. Tariq Ahmad Lone, who heads the pony riders association in Gulmarg, expressed the hardship faced by his community, stating that their livelihood directly depends on snow, and a snowless season will bring misery for their families.
In addition to tourism, the absence of snowfall is expected to impact hydroelectricity generation, fisheries, and farming. The neighboring territory of Ladakh is also experiencing a snowless winter, raising concerns about water scarcity and its impact on agriculture.
Environmentalists and experts warn that the region could be facing a drought-like situation, emphasizing the urgent need for addressing climate change. Some experts note that snowfall in the region has been declining for the past couple of years, with the Kashmir valley bearing the brunt of climate change.
