Anantnag, Jammu & Kashmir: Kashmir, once renowned for its natural springs that provided a consistent supply of water throughout the valley, is now facing a worrisome situation as many of these springs have run dry.
Experts have attributed this decline to unpredictable climate changes, extended dry periods, and a reduction in rainfall and snowfall, all of which have significantly impacted groundwater levels in the region. As a result, locals are left to confront an uncertain future regarding their water supply.
One of the most notable casualties of this environmental shift is the Achabal Spring in South Kashmir, a historic and once-abundant water source located in the renowned Achabal Mughal Garden. This spring has long been a beloved spot for both locals and tourists, valued not only for its natural beauty but also for its cultural and historical significance. However, the decline in its water levels now serves as a stark reminder of the region’s growing water crisis.
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Shabir Ahmad, a local resident, told ETV Bharat, "It’s for the first time in history that I see this spring drying up and the flow completely stopping, which worries."
He added that the surrounding communities that live near the Achabal Garden are heavily reliant on its water for drinking purposes as well as for irrigating their crops. He pointed out that the local trout fish farms are also facing a significant threat, as their operations have long depended on the steady supply of water from the spring.
"We are also afraid about the serious outcome for crops and local ecosystems that depend on a steady water supply," he told the publication.
The experts pointed to climate change and illegal human activities as the two primary factors behind the drying up of these springs.
In addition, the Bringi Nallah, which feeds the Achabal Spring, has also been experiencing reduced water flow, further exacerbating the issue.
