Suhail Khan
Srinagar, Dec 12: A prolonged dry spell has pushed the water level in Kashmir’s principal river, the Jhelum, to its lowest point in recent years, raising concerns among residents over potential water shortages.
Speaking to Kashmir Convener, Public Health Engineering (PHE) Chief Engineer Rakesh Kumar Gupta detailed the impact of the ongoing dry conditions on the region’s water supply and outlined the department’s preparedness as the intense winter period of Chilai Kalan approaches.
“We operate five major water treatment plants in Kashmir, including those at Nishat, Suknag, and Ganderbal. Currently, these facilities are supplying between 90 and 100 million gallons of treated water daily. As of now, there is no deficit; all plants are operating normally, and water distribution remains uninterrupted,” Gupta stated.
He acknowledged the prevailing conditions, noting, “A dry spell is undoubtedly ongoing, with no significant rainfall or snowfall recorded so far. Should it persist, some plants may experience a shortfall, likely affecting tail-end areas first. For this scenario, we are prepared to deploy water tankers. The department already has a fleet of approximately 80 tankers, with an additional buffer of 30. We are ready to hire more if necessary. All arrangements are in place,” he clarified, adding that no supply shortfall has occurred yet.
Regarding winter preparedness, Gupta added, “We are implementing additional measures in anticipation of Chilai Kalan. Mobile generator sets are on standby to address potential power disruptions, and we have secured advance stocks of POL (petrol, oil, lubricants) to operate them.”
He also addressed seasonal operational challenges: “Frost accumulation on pipelines can cause disruptions during winter. We are technologically equipped and have made necessary arrangements to manage such issues.” Gupta further emphasized that all field staff have been directed to remain available around the clock to respond to any emergencies and ensure continuous water supply.
Showkat Hussain, Chief Engineer of the Irrigation and Flood Control Department, told Kashmir Convener that the dry conditions have led to a significant decline in the Jhelum’s water level. “Current readings show the river at 0.56 feet at Sangam and 3.59 feet at Munshi Bagh,” he reported.
Hussain explained that the dry spell, which began in October, has reduced water intake at various points, straining both irrigation networks and drinking water supply schemes dependent on the river.
Meanwhile, the Kashmir Valley is facing a critical and worsening water crisis, driven by a severe and protracted precipitation deficit that scientists warn may signal a broader climatic shift. This emerging “silent emergency” threatens not only the region’s famed landscapes but also the foundations of its economy and food security.
An alarming 83% shortfall in seasonal rainfall—categorized as “very low”—has drastically reduced flows in rivers, tributaries, and natural springs, jeopardizing water supplies across all ten districts.
The Jhelum River, the valley’s lifeline, has reached historically low levels, registering -0.53 feet at the Sangam monitoring station. Similarly diminished readings at Ram Munshi Bagh and Asham indicate a profound disturbance in the region’s hydrological balance.
The crisis is compounded by critically low flows in major tributaries such as the Lidder, Rambiara, Ferozepora Nallah, and Pohru River. This decline endangers drinking water access, agricultural irrigation, and the replenishment of already stressed groundwater reserves.
“Kashmir’s water scarcity has quietly escalated into a serious environmental emergency,” said Faizan, an independent weather forecaster based in Kashmir, in an interview with Kashmir Convener.
He explained that reduced snowfall and rainfall in recent winters have critically impaired the natural groundwater recharge process, which depends on gradual snowmelt and consistent precipitation. As these inputs decline, perennial springs are drying up and water tables are falling.
“The encroachment on natural recharge zones has worsened the situation,” Faizan added. “Large-scale construction is sealing permeable wetlands, floodplains, and open soils. Concrete and asphalt now prevent water infiltration, turning precipitation into rapid runoff instead of underground storage.”
In a related development, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the Meteorological Department, informed Kashmir Convener that no major weather activity is forecast until at least December 19. “No change in this dry situation is expected unless new western disturbances affect the region,” he said.
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