Jhelum River Reaches Historic Low as Dry Spell Grips Kashmir

Press Trust of Kashmir

SRINAGAR – The Jhelum river in Kashmir has hit an unprecedented low water level, reaching -0.75 feet at Sangam in Anantnag district and -0.86 feet at Asham in Bandipora district, according to officials on Sunday.

This marks the lowest water level in the river since November 2017, as the region grapples with an extended dry spell this winter. Kashmir has experienced minimal snowfall, with a staggering 79 percent rainfall deficit recorded for December. The first fortnight of January has seen little to no precipitation in most parts of the valley.

The impact of the dry spell is evident in iconic locations like the Gulmarg ski resort, traditionally blanketed in snow at this time of the season, now standing dry and barren.

The dwindling water levels in the Jhelum raise concerns about the region’s water resources and the potential implications for agriculture and daily life. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as Kashmir continues to navigate the challenges posed by this prolonged period of dry weather.