RIVERS OF JAMMU AND KASHMIR
Nature has endowed the state of Jammu and Kashmir with rich resources of lakes and rivers. The most important rivers include the Indus, Jhelum, Tawi, Chenab, Ravi and Kishenganga which have their headwaters in the Himalayan Mountain range and flow across the length of the state. The unending water supply from these rivers forms the backbone in shaping the economy of the state. Main sectors of the state which are directly dependent on water resources include agriculture, irrigation, horticulture, hydroelectricity, and tourism. Moreover, the water resources of the state are governed by special commandments laid down under the Indus Water Treaty (IWT).
The rugged mountainous terrain, climate, and the human activities have made the state of Jammu and Kashmir vulnerable to the vagaries of nature. Considering the water-related hazards prevalent in the state, it is observed that floods, bank/soil erosion, and deterioration of water quality due to anthropogenic activities are the major cause of concern. In addition, serious concerns regarding water resources are posed by the anticipated influence of climate change on snow-ice reserves and stream flow. Such an altered precipitation and temperature patterns in a scenario of changing climatic conditions will surely affect the seasonal pattern and variability of water levels in wetlands, potentially affecting valued aspects of their functioning as flood protection, carbon storage, water cleansing, and wildlife habitat. Therefore, it is envisaged that growth plans pertaining to various sectors which are closely related to and dependent upon water resources of Jammu and Kashmir should essentially aim at sustainable development having a futuristic vision and considering their positive and negative impacts.
