Experts warn of severe water shortages in the summer due to rising temperatures and forest fires
Dark clouds hover over the garrison town as the first period of winter rains sets in, bringing a noticeable drop in temperature and signaling the arrival of the cold season. Photo: Agha Mahroz/Express
BALAKOT:
The dangers of climate change have begun to loom large over the Kaghan Valley. Even in December this year, the mountains remain devoid of snow, raising serious concerns about acute water shortages in the coming years and the accelerated melting of old glaciers.
In the past, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has repeatedly predicted rainfall and snowfall; however, after a single period of light snowfall, no further snow has been recorded to date.
A number of factors are contributing to climate change in the valley, including unregulated construction and a sharp increase in traffic. At the same time, forest fires appear to be a significant driving force for rising temperatures. The Kaghan Valley – known the world over for its breathtaking beauty and towering snow-capped peaks – is currently experiencing severe climatic upheavals.
Unlike previous years, December is drawing to a close, yet the mountains, which traditionally remain snow-covered throughout the year, are still barren. This has sparked deep concern among local residents and environmental experts alike.
Due to the absence or extremely low levels of snowfall this year, water levels in streams and creeks have dropped to alarmingly low levels. Even last year, a noticeable drop in water flow was observed.
Experts warn that if sufficient snow does not accumulate on the mountains in winter, the coming summer could bring severe shortages of water for drinking and agriculture – not only in the Kaghan Valley, but also in downstream areas.
In addition, centuries-old glaciers, considered an important natural asset in the valley, are rapidly melting and shrinking. According to environmental specialists, one of the main reasons for rising temperatures in the region is the increasing incidence of forest fires. In recent years, fires at various locations in Kaghan have not only reduced valuable forests to ashes, but have also intensified local heat, thereby changing the region’s microclimate.
The reduction in forest cover has negatively affected rainfall patterns and reduced the soil’s ability to retain moisture. The absence of snowfall in Kaghan is not simply a seasonal anomaly; it is a warning sign of a far greater environmental disaster. Forest fires lead to increased carbon emissions, which further accelerate the melting of snow and ice.
Unless emergency measures are taken to promote afforestation and protect existing forests, both the valley’s natural beauty and its economy face devastation.
Local civil society groups have urged the government and relevant authorities to enforce strict laws to prevent forest fires in the Kaghan Valley and to immediately launch public awareness campaigns to combat the effects of climate change.
Kaghan receives first snowfall after drought
Our correspondent
BALAKOT: After a prolonged dry spell, nature has finally shown mercy in the Kaghan Valley and surrounding areas with snowfall in the upper regions and rainfall in the plains. After months of waiting, the mountains of Kaghan Valley have been covered with a white blanket, while intermittent light and heavy rains continue in Balakot town and its surroundings.
Snowfall has formally begun in Shogran, Siri Paye, Naran, Lake Saiful Malook and Babusar areas.
So far, four inches of snow has been reported in Naran, while snowfall of up to one foot has been recorded in Babusar and adjoining areas.
After the long drought, this weather change is expected to improve water levels in streams and have a positive impact on the agricultural sector.
A large number of tourists eager to witness snowfall have started heading towards the Kaghan Valley.
Tourists must travel up to Shogran and Kaghan where they can enjoy the weather to the fullest.
However, due to heavy snowfall and slippery conditions on the Kaghan Highway, the district administration has closed all routes leading to Naran for all traffic.
Tourists have been advised to use chains on vehicle tires while traveling during snowfall and to avoid unnecessary driving on dangerous routes.
According to the Meteorological Department, rain and snowfall are likely to continue today as well, further intensifying the cold in Balakot and Kaghan Valley.
