Experts warn of severe summer water shortages amid rising temperatures and forest fires
Dark clouds loom over the garrison city as the first spell of winter rain sets in, bringing a noticeable drop in temperature and signalling the arrival of the cold season. Photo: Agha Mahroz/Express
BALAKOT:
The dangers of climate change are beginning 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 ancient glaciers.
In the past, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) repeatedly forecast rainfall and snowfall; however, after a single spell of light snowfall, no further snow has been recorded to date.
A range 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 major driver of rising temperatures. The Kaghan Valley — renowned worldwide for its breathtaking beauty and towering snow-capped peaks — is currently experiencing severe climatic upheaval.
Unlike previous years, December is drawing to a close, yet the mountains that traditionally remain snow-covered throughout the year are still barren. This has triggered 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 rivulets have fallen to alarmingly low levels. Even last year, a noticeable decline in water flow was observed.
Experts warn that if sufficient snow doesn’t accumulate on the mountains during winter, the coming summer could bring severe shortages of water for drinking and agriculturenot only in the Kaghan Valley but also in downstream areas.
Moreover, centuries-old glaciers, considered a vital natural asset of the valley, are rapidly melting and shrinking. According to environmental specialists, one of the key reasons for rising temperatures in the region is the increasing incidence of forest fires. In recent years, fires at various locations across Kaghan have not only reduced valuable forests to ashes but have also intensified local heat, thereby altering the region’s microclimate.
The reduction in forest cover has adversely affected rainfall patterns and diminished the land’s ability to retain moisture. The absence of snowfall in Kaghan is not merely a seasonal anomaly; it is a warning sign of a far greater environmental catastrophe. 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 impacts of climate change.
Kaghan gets first snowfall after drought
Our Correspondent
BALAKOT: After a prolonged dry spell, nature has finally shown mercy in Kaghan Valley and the 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 in a white blanket, while intermittent light and heavy rain continue in Balakot city and its surroundings.
Snowfall has formally begun in Shogran, Siri Paye, Naran, Lake Saiful Malook and Babusar areas.
So far, four inches of snow have been reported in Naran, while snowfall of up to one foot has been recorded in Babusar and adjoining areas.
Following 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 Kaghan Valley.
Tourists are allowed to travel up to Shogran and Kaghan, where they can fully enjoy the weather.
However, due to heavy snowfall and slippery conditions on the Kaghan Highway, the district administration has closed all routes leading to Naran for all kinds of traffic.
Tourists have been advised to use chains on vehicle tyres while travelling during snowfall and to avoid unnecessary travel on dangerous routes.
According to the Meteorological Department, rain and snowfall are likely to continue today as well, which will further intensify the cold in Balakot and Kaghan Valley.
