Amid a prolonged dry spell, the water levels in major reservoirs have significantly decreased, raising concerns about water supply stability and an increased risk of forest fires in the Kashmir.
Weather experts have, however, warned that the water levels may fall further owing to the dry spell, which is expected to continue till November 10.
Sources in the Jal Shakti (PHE) department, speaking with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said the dry weather has caused the water level in reservoirs to drop, and it is expected to rise and improve as the weather changes.
They added that the decline in water supply from reservoirs has caused the water supply to fall very low and be insufficient at many places.
When contacted, the officials in the Jal Shakti (PHE) Department told KNO that despite the low water levels; they assure that timely recharges in the morning and evening hours are helping maintain the balance, preventing an immediate shortage.
“The flows are minimized during the daytime to preserve reserves and to allow a recharge of water,” they said.
Independent weather forecaster Faizan Arif Keng, when contacted by KNO, said the dry spell is likely to persist over the next five days.
“A weak Western Disturbance may bring light rain or snow to isolated areas around November 11, but significant relief is unlikely,” he said.
He added that another system could impact Jammu Kashmir around November 14, although its intensity remains uncertain.
Significantly, “The prolonged dryness has also increased the risk of forest fires across the region. Shedding trees and dried vegetation, coupled with local burning practices, have heightened the potential for fire outbreaks,” said Faizan, while urging residents to avoid burning leaves or other dry vegetation to safeguard Kashmir’s green cover—(KNO)