Is Kashmir Inviting Another 2014-Style Flood?

Kashmir's water bodies are disappearing under the weight of unchecked encroachments and poor planning. The region must act now, or risk another devastating flood.

- Syed Mudasir Mushtaq

Kashmir's streams, rivers, and wetlands are essential to millions. But today, these natural water bodies are under threat. Slowly and steadily, unchecked encroachments, unregulated construction, and poor planning are shrinking these essential resources. The consequences? A future flood that could rival, or even exceed, the devastating flood of 2014. If action is not taken soon, the valley may face a crisis that is as much man-made as it is natural.

The threat to Kashmir’s water bodies is both widespread and deeply ingrained. Over the years, individuals and businesses have gradually encroached upon the banks of rivers and streams. They have constructed buildings, dumped waste, and altered the natural flow of water. These obstructions reduce the capacity of waterways to carry water during heavy rainfall or sudden snowmelt, leading to increased flood risks. Alarmingly, even government infrastructure projects, though often designed for public benefit, have encroached upon floodplains and wetlands, exacerbating the problem. Without strict regulation, unchecked development and disaster are marching hand in hand.

The situation calls for urgent attention because Kashmir’s water bodies are not just scenic or recreational; they are vital to the region’s agricultural, ecological, and social fabric. The region’s famous wetlands, such as Hokersar, Wular, and Anchar, provide essential services like water filtration, flood control, and habitat for countless species of birds and animals. They support farming and act as a buffer during times of heavy rainfall or snowmelt. Yet, these wetlands are shrinking rapidly, leaving the valley vulnerable to both ecological collapse and deadly floods.