JAMMU: As the world looks to combat environmental degradation on a global scale, a passionate environment activist Dr Raja Muzaffar Bhat's goals and aspirations for Jammu and Kashmir's environment serve as a powerful reminder that every individual has a role to play in nurturing and protecting our planet. The pristine beauty of Jammu and Kashmir's environment has long been cherished by locals and visitors alike. However, escalating developmental activities and climate change threats have cast a shadow over its ecological balance.
The consequences of urbanization and unplanned development in the picturesque region of Jammu and Kashmir have emerged as major threats to the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. With residential colonies encroaching upon wetlands, government office complexes sprouting up in forest areas and wetlands, and an alarming lack of control over plastic waste, the consequences are becoming increasingly apparent. The results are devastating floods, severe water-logging. These alarming revelations cast a dark shadow over the environmental stability of this scenic region.
With this alarming reality in mind, the environmental activist Dr Raja Muzaffar Bhat emphasized on prioritizing environmental conservation and advocates for stricter regulations on industrial emissions, deforestation, and pollution control, as well as promoting sustainable practices in sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and energy.
The situation demands the attention of relevant authorities and the active participation of the community to find sustainable solutions and ensure a cleaner and healthier future for Jammu and Kashmir.
This environmental activist stands firm in his belief that the time for action is now, advocating for a future that balances sustainable development with the preservation of its unique natural heritage.
On this important issue, Editor-in-Chief of JK Monitor (www.jkmonitor.org) Ajmer Alam Wani asked few relevant questions directly to Dr Raja Muzaffar Bhat during an exclusive online interview, and here is his to the point response to each question.
- Can you provide an overview of the major environmental challenges faced by the Jammu and Kashmir region, particularly in the context of the Himalayas?
Melting of Glaciers, uncontrolled tourism, haphazard constructions, Illegal Mining, unscientific waste management.
- How has climate change impacted the ecological balance and biodiversity in Jammu and Kashmir?
We have warm Feb, March months and cold May and June. Unseasonal rains, snowfall, floods, melting of Glaciers. This is enough proof of climate change.
- What are the key factors contributing to deforestation in the region, and what steps can be taken to address this issue?
Timber smuggling was an issue; this has been controlled to a great extent. Now the biggest challenge for deforestation is uncontrolled development, making of PMGSY roads, highways etc.
- How has urbanization and unplanned development affected the fragile Himalayan ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir?
We set up residential colonies in wetlands, Govt office complexes in forest areas & wetlands. This is causing floods, water logging. There is no control over reducing plastic waste, MSW Rules 2016 not implemented. Biomedical waste management not done.
- What are the main sources of water pollution in the region, and what measures should be taken to ensure the conservation and cleanliness of water bodies?
Liquid waste, solid waste, spraying of pesticides, illegal riverbed mining. Measures can be banning of plastic, setting up of small sewage treatment plants in all streams and rivers. Implementation of solid liquid waste management programme under Swachh Bharat Mission Gramin Phase 2.
- Could you discuss the implications of glacial retreat and its impact on water availability and agricultural practices in Jammu and Kashmir?
This is a dangerous trend. Kolohai Glacier is receding, Tatakoti Glacier is also receding and so are many other small glaciers receding. Reason is a temperature increase & fast snow melting. It will lead to drought in the coming years especially in summers.
- How has the increasing tourism industry in Jammu and Kashmir affected the environment, and what steps can be taken to promote sustainable tourism?
A lot of thrust has to be given to protecting Kashmir’s environment. Instead of going ahead with construction of massive hotels in Srinagar and other tourist places, the Govt must consider setting up eco- friendly lodges and huts or high end tented accommodation. Govt of India has in-fact come up with a National Strategy for Sustainable Tourism last year wherein thrust has been given on Sustainable Tourism.
Sustainable tourism or Green Tourism takes into account current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visiting tourists, the tourism industry, the environment and host communities. The policy document on National Strategy for Sustainable Tourism prepared by the Ministry of Tourism needs to be enforced on ground.
- Can you shed light on the issue of waste management in Jammu and Kashmir and propose effective solutions to tackle this problem?
J&K generates at least 1000 Metric Tons of waste daily and not even 1 % of this waste is treated scientifically as per MSW Rules 2016.
Not even 5 % population home compost their own kitchen waste, inspite of having enough space available. I raised this issue before High Court and gave presentation to former Chief Secretary BVR Subramanium to make home composting of organic and food waste compulsory for the families having ½ kanal of land or more around their houses.
We don’t even have a single Sanitary Landfill site. Srinagar’s landfill site is chocked already, No space is available to create new site. As our landmass is less waste management is more challenging in J&K. This is very serious issue.
- What are the challenges associated with implementing environmental policies and regulations in the region?
Security, Development.
- Could you discuss the role of local communities in environmental conservation efforts and highlight any successful community-based initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir?
Enforce Biodiversity Act 2002, the answer lies there.
- Can you shed light on the issue of air pollution in the region and suggest measures to improve air quality?
We have worst Air Quality in Srinagar, National Highways and many other districts. Reason, dust, illegal clay mining, brick and cement kilns, Not taking proper protection during road constructions.
- How can traditional ecological knowledge and practices be integrated into modern conservation strategies in Jammu and Kashmir?
This is where Biodiversity Act 2002 can play a Role.
- Are there any ongoing research or monitoring programs to assess the state of the environment and track changes in the region over time?
Pollution Control Committee, Universities can answer this.
- Could you discuss the importance of international collaboration and cooperation in addressing the environmental challenges faced by Jammu and Kashmir and the Himalayan region?
There are International conventions, SDGs on environment which need to be followed in toto. Even we have at least one dozen beautiful laws on Air Water and Forests which should be enforced on ground.
- What role can educational institutions and awareness campaigns play in promoting environmental consciousness and sustainable practices among the local population?
We need practical handholding now, awareness is already there.
- Can you highlight any success stories or best practices in environmental conservation from other regions that could be applicable to Jammu and Kashmir?
There are many success stories from South India which need to be replicated on ground.
- Finally, as an environmental activist, what are your primary goals and aspirations for the future of Jammu and Kashmir's environment?
This is the time to act now. Awareness, Education is enough as we live in the information age. Action is needed on ground by Govt and private players including individuals.