Anantnag: For the first time, the historic Mughal garden at Achabal, once celebrated for its cascading waterfalls and natural springs, is facing an unprecedented crisis as its water sources dry up due to climate change. This iconic site, built by Empress Nur Jahan in the 17th century, now holds barren fountains and streams, marking a stark departure from its lush past.
Local resident and social activist Shabir Ahmad expressed his deep concern, “We have never witnessed such a change in the Mughal Garden at Achabal drying up. This is the first time we are seeing such a disheartening scene.” He noted the complete absence of water from the spring, which has caused severe shortages for drinking and agriculture. “Our sins—how we are polluting the water bodies—along with declining rainfall and snowfall due to climate change, are the main reasons for this worsening situation,” he elaborated.
The dwindling water supply is not merely disheartening; it poses serious challenges for local agriculture and horticulture. Ahmad stated, “When water is not available, how can we irrigate our land? This situation will have severe effects on our crops, with shortages already evident.” Local villages, some dependent on Achabal’s resources, now have little choice but to rely on water tankers for their daily needs.
Mushtaq Ahmad, another local resident, described the garden’s drying as heartbreaking and warned, “Achabal Garden is our heritage, part of our identity. If immediate action isn’t taken, we fear it may never be the same again.”
Experts confirm the crisis. Dr. Masoon A. Beig, geographer, explains the environmental changes: “Climate change has altered precipitation patterns in Kashmir, affecting the natural springs sustaining Achabal Garden for centuries.” He pointed out the severe reduction of snowfall and the prolonged dry spells exacerbated by rising temperatures.
Gowhar Ahmad, AEE Jal Shakti Achabal, highlighted the social impact—over twelve villages traditionally serviced by Achabal spring are now turning to tankers, affecting nearly 80% of the region. He said, “We are sending tankers to the affected villages to provide water supply,” demonstrating the far-reaching consequences of this environmental distress.
The historic Achabal Mughal Garden, rich with cultural significance, seems to embody the community’s challenges. Ghulam Hassan, 80, reflected on the stark changes, “I can’t believe my eyes. The springs have completely dried up. This heartbreaking scene is unprecedented.”
The broader repercussions are felt across Kashmir, where other water sources are also diminishing. The spring’s depletion is part of alarming trends, with many streams and tributaries drying up, attributed to climate anomalies, such as temperatures soaring well above seasonal averages. These changes have generated serious concerns for drinking water, agriculture, and tourism.
Notably, local expert Prof. Shakeel Ahmad Romshoo warned, “Snowmelt plays a pivotal role in replenishing spring discharge... lack of snowfall could have severe repercussions.” Without sufficient snowfall during the coming months, the region risks encountering worsening water scarcity and prolonged drought-like conditions.
With urgent calls mounting for climate action, conservationist advocates argue for integrated strategies, including responsible water management and pollution control. The environmentalist urged all to unite, stating, “It is time to conserve our water sources before it’s too late; otherwise, future generations will struggle to find even one drop.”
This pressing situation at Achabal Garden underlines the immediate need for collective action to safeguard both cultural heritage and the broader ecological continuity of Kashmir. The drying up of such cherished natural resources draws attention not only to local heritage but stresses the pressing realities of climate change affecting communities and ecosystems alike.