Kashmir is a land shaped by water. Its rivers, lakes, springs, wetlands, and glaciers are not merely elements of its landscape; they are the foundation of its ecology, economy, and way of life. From the Jhelum to Dal and Wular, and from the springs of Verinag to the glaciers of the Himalayas, water is woven into Kashmir’s identity. Yet the valley is increasingly struggling to protect this wealth. Pollution, unregulated construction, waste dumping, unsustainable extraction, tourism pressure, and climate change are placing immense stress on this ecosystem. Development, when guided by sustainability, can coexist with nature. But when the balance is disturbed, the consequences can be severe. Nowhere is this balance more important than in Kashmir’s relationship with water.

Kashmir’s freshwater wealth is extraordinary. Wular Lake, Dal Lake, Hokersar wetlands, alpine lakes of Ganderbal, Kausarnag, and the twin lakes of Tarsar and Marsar define the region’s geography. Its springs—Verinag, Achabal, and Chashma Shahi—are historically significant sources of water. Above these lie glaciers like Kolhoi and Thajiwas, which act as vital freshwater reservoirs. Their condition is directly connected to Kashmir’s water security. Yet this system is not insulated from change. Rising temperatures, warmer summers, and increasing heat extremes are placing additional pressure on glaciers and water resources.

Kashmir’s vulnerability to water-related disasters is not new. The........

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