Declining Snowfall in Kashmir: Impacts on Tourism, Climate, and Agriculture

Amidst Declining Snowfall in Kashmir, Gulmarg, renowned for its winter charm and vibrant ski resorts, is grappling with an unusual winter predicament – a severe shortage of snow.

Why Kashmir and Ladakh are without snow this winter?

Climatic Variations and Rainfall Deficit

• Jammu and Kashmir, along with Ladakh, have experienced an 80% rainfall deficit in December and 100% in January.
• Normally, these regions receive their first snowfall in early December, continuing through most of January, but this season has been unusually dry.

Decline in Western Disturbances

• Western Disturbances, originating beyond Afghanistan and Iran, are vital for winter precipitation in the Himalayan region.
• There has been a noticeable decline in these disturbances, leading to reduced precipitation during winter months.

Rising Temperatures

• A general increase in temperatures, more pronounced in higher elevations, has contributed to the reduction in snowfall.
• Temperature patterns in Kashmir this winter have occasionally mirrored or exceeded those in plains like Delhi.

El Niño Impact

• The persistence of El Niño, affecting global atmospheric circulation, may be contributing to the deficit precipitation.
• Although El Niño is a factor, other years without its presence have also experienced low snowfall, indicating broader climatic changes.

What are its Implications?

Tourism and Economic Impacts

• Significant decrease in tourist arrivals, especially in popular destinations like Gulmarg.
• Foreign and domestic tourists are cancelling or postponing visits, impacting local businesses and the economy.
• Houseboat owners in regions like Dal Lake face challenges due to the dry conditions.

Agricultural and Environmental Concerns

• Reduced snowfall affects winter crops, particularly horticulture, leading to lower yields of key crops like apples and saffron.
• Scanty snowfall implies little groundwater recharge, impacting drinking water supply and increasing the risk of forest fires and agricultural drought.

Long-term Ecological Effects

• Less snowfall contributes to the faster melting of glaciers and affects the generation of hydroelectricity.
• The overall environmental health of the region is at risk, necessitating adaptive and mitigative strategies to address these changes.

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