Rafakat Rafiq Ahmad
The Earth and its resources make life possible. Without sunlight, air, vegetation, and water, life simply cannot exist. Yet, if we continue to misuse these natural blessings, a future without them may become our grim reality.
The Earth provides limited resources—precious gifts that we often take for granted. Driven by greed, humans are exploiting these resources at an alarming rate. This selfish behavior has caused immense and, in some cases, irreversible damage to the environment. From polluted air to contaminated water and disappearing forests, the warning signs are everywhere. If we fail to act now, the survival of all living beings, including ourselves, will be in jeopardy.
Saving the Earth is not a choice—it is a necessity. As the only known planet capable of sustaining life, Earth demands our urgent attention. A grassroots movement involving all stakeholders—governments, institutions, communities, and individuals—is essential. We do not have a “Planet B.” The responsibility to protect this one lies with all of us.
Human activities have disrupted the lives of countless other organisms. Ironically, it is we who must now take corrective steps. Small, individual actions can have large, collective impacts. For example, if one person stops drinking bottled water, thousands of plastic bottles can be saved from polluting the environment.
We must plant more trees to counter the rapid deforestation around us. Trees not only absorb carbon dioxide but also restore ecological balance and improve air quality. Likewise, water conservation should become a daily habit. Avoiding wasteful practices and preventing pollution of rivers and lakes is vital, especially since freshwater resources are dwindling fast.
Beyond individual action, institutional and community efforts are critical. Governments must implement stricter environmental policies. Educational institutions should organize awareness programs—seminars, essay competitions, model exhibitions, and nature walks—to instill environmental consciousness among students. Villages and towns can form community-based conservation clubs and organize Panchayat-level meetings to promote collective responsibility.
The first Earth Day was celebrated on April 22, 1970, when 20 million Americans rallied for a healthy, sustainable environment. It was a day that united people across class, region, and occupation—urban and rural, rich and poor, students and workers. It led to landmark legislation, such as the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and the Endangered Species Act.
Earth Day is now celebrated globally. However, in our country—and particularly in Kashmir—this day is often reduced to mere symbolism. The core message is not widely highlighted or implemented in action.
Kashmir, long known as “Paradise on Earth” for its pristine lakes, forests, and mountains, is now facing a severe environmental crisis. Air pollution in the valley has increased dramatically over the last few decades due to unregulated brick kilns, wood burning, and unchecked industrialization. Experts warn that Kashmir could soon become as polluted as Delhi if corrective action is not taken.
Brick kilns are a major culprit. Reports suggest that many operate without valid licenses and continue to use outdated, polluting technologies. The Pollution Control Board had mandated a switch from traditional bull trench kilns to eco-friendly zigzag technology to reduce carbon emissions. But enforcement remains weak.
Industrial pollution is another concern. For example, the Khrew area in Pulwama houses six cement factories that have turned life into a nightmare for locals. According to a study by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology and the University of Kashmir, coal burning contributes over 95% of the PM 2.5 emissions in the region—worse than Delhi’s infamous smog.
Water pollution is equally alarming. Rivers such as the Jhelum, Chenab, Tawi, and Ravi are heavily contaminated due to industrial effluents, human and animal waste, and garbage. Once used for drinking, the Jhelum is now unfit even for bathing. Sewage from homes and businesses is directly discharged into the river across the valley. Dal Lake, Wular Lake, and other major water bodies are also deteriorating rapidly.
This situation compels us to ask:
Who is responsible—government authorities or the general public?
Why hasn’t the spirit of Earth Day reached the hearts of Kashmiris?
Is it ignorance, negligence, or a conscious choice to pollute our surroundings?
Aren’t we all part of this Earth? Do we not share equal responsibility for its protection?
Let’s not restrict Earth Day to a symbolic celebration. Let us become active participants in protecting our environment. Start by adopting the 3 Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Use glass bottles, cloth bags, and reusable cups. Avoid disposable items like plastic bottles and paper towels. Compost your kitchen waste. Start recycling programs in your community.
Let us also extend full cooperation to environmental laws and regulations. Whether it’s following solid waste disposal rules or shifting to eco-friendly technologies, every step matters.
Kashmir, our “Jannat-e-Benazeer,” is not just a tourist destination—it is our home. Let’s not allow pollution to rob future generations of its beauty. The time for action is now. Let’s take pride in protecting our Earth—not just once a year, but every single day.
Author can be mailed at rafakatrafiqm@gmail.com
