Experts warn of serious summer water shortages due to rising temperatures and forest fires
Dark clouds loom over the garrison city as the first winter rain arrives, causing a noticeable drop in temperature and signaling 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 snowless, raising serious concerns about severe water shortages in the coming years and accelerated melting of ancient glaciers.
In the past, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has repeatedly forecast rain and snowfall; However, after a single spell of light snowfall, no further snow has been recorded to date.
A variety 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, world-renowned for its stunning beauty and towering snow-capped peaks, is currently experiencing serious climate upheaval.
Unlike previous years, December is coming to an end, but the mountains that traditionally remain covered in snow all year round remain barren. This has caused deep concern among both local residents and environmental experts.
Due to the absence or extremely low levels of snowfall this year, water levels in streams and streams have fallen to alarmingly low levels. Even last year a notable decrease in water flow was observed.
Experts warn that if enough snow does not accumulate in the mountains during the winter, next summer could cause serious shortages of water for drinking and agriculture, not only in the Kaghan Valley but also in downstream areas.
Additionally, centuries-old glaciers, considered a vital natural asset of the valley, are melting and shrinking rapidly. According to environmental specialists, one of the main reasons for the increase in temperatures in the region is the increasing incidence of forest fires. In recent years, fires in several places in Kaghan have not only reduced valuable forests to ashes, but have also intensified the local heat, thus altering the microclimate of the region.
Reducing forest cover has negatively affected rainfall patterns and decreased the land’s ability to retain moisture. The absence of snowfall in Kaghan is not simply a seasonal anomaly; It is a warning sign of a much larger environmental catastrophe. Wildfires cause increased carbon emissions, further accelerating 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 receives first snow after drought
Our correspondent
BALAKOT: After a prolonged drought, nature has finally shown mercy in and around the Kaghan Valley, with snowfall in the upper regions and rain in the plains. After months of waiting, the mountains of the Kaghan Valley have been covered in a blanket of white, while intermittent, light and heavy rains continue in the city of Balakot and its surroundings.
Snowfall has formally started in Shogran, Siri Paye, Naran, Saiful Malook Lake 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 climate 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 the snowfall have started heading towards the Kaghan Valley.
Tourists can travel 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 types of traffic.
Tourists have been advised to use vehicle tire chains while traveling during snowfall and avoid unnecessary travel on dangerous routes.
According to the Meteorological Department, rain and snowfall are also likely to continue today, which will further intensify the cold in Balakot and Kaghan Valley.
