Western Disturbance to Bring Rain, Snow to Jammu and Kashmir Amid Water Crisis

Western Disturbance to Bring Rain, Snow to Jammu and Kashmir Amid Water Crisis

Western Disturbance to Bring Rain, Snow to Jammu and Kashmir Srinagar, February 17, 2025 – A fresh Western Disturbance is set to bring much-needed rain and snow to Jammu and Kashmir, offering a potential respite from the ongoing dry spell that has raised concerns about a looming drought in the region. According to the Meteorological Department, the disturbance is expected to affect the region from February 19 to 20, bringing light to moderate rain and snow across the Union Territory, with heavy precipitation likely in higher elevations. Current Weather and…

Read More

Experts Sound Alarm Over Proposed Amendments to J&K Building Bylaws

Experts Sound Alarm Over Proposed Amendments to J&K Building Bylaws

Architects, environmental experts raise concerns over changes in building bylaws Architects and environmental experts have voiced concerns over proposed amendments to the J&K Unified Building Byelaws (UBBL) 2021, calling for more comprehensive public consultations before implementation. The J&K Housing and Urban Development Department recently invited public suggestions on the proposed amendments to UBBL-2021. However, experts argue that the proposed changes are unsuitable for ecologically sensitive regions like Jammu and Kashmir and could increase the risk of disasters and urban congestion. The deadline for submitting suggestions was January 18. A Kashmir-based…

Read More

J&K Government and Chief Secretary’s Directives on Waste Management Welcomed by EPG

J&K Government and Chief Secretary's Directives on Waste Management Welcomed by EPG

EPG Applauds J&K Government and Chief Secretary’s Directives on Solid Waste Management Environmental Policy Group Welcomes Major Steps Towards Comprehensive Waste Management in Jammu & Kashmir –The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) has warmly welcomed the Jammu & Kashmir Government’s decision to remediate the Achan Dumping Site and Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo’s recent directive that mandates a deadline for municipalities in J&K to prepare comprehensive Waste Management Action Plans. This strategic decision, made during a review meeting with the Housing & Urban Development Department (H&UDD), signals a significant leap forward in…

Read More

From Uttarakhand to Kashmir: Understanding the Himalayan Development Dilemma in Depth

From Uttarakhand to Kashmir: Understanding the Himalayan Development Dilemma in Depth

Reevaluating Himalayan Development Models: Lessons from Uttarakhand Tunnel Collapse and Kashmir Challenges By: Javid Amin The collapse of a tunnel in Uttarakhand recently has reverberated as more than just a tragic incident; it’s a poignant call to reconsider the development strategies in the Himalayan region. To grasp the implications fully, it’s imperative to widen the lens beyond Uttarakhand, shedding light on the similar challenges faced by regions like Kashmir. The Himalayas, known for their breathtaking landscapes and ecological significance, are experiencing increased human intervention. The Uttarakhand tunnel collapse is a…

Read More

Pahalgam’s tourism carrying capacity exceeded, leading to environmental degradation and social disruption

Pahalgam's tourism carrying capacity exceeded, leading to environmental degradation and social disruption

Pahalgam’s environment and culture under threat from tourism By : Javid Amin Pahalgam, nestled in the picturesque region of Jammu and Kashmir, India, has long been renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. Its lush mountains, meandering rivers, and verdant forests have made it a favored tourist destination. However, in recent years, Pahalgam has encountered a host of challenges, primarily centered around environmental degradation and the growing issue of overtourism. Foremost among these challenges is environmental degradation, stemming from several interconnected factors. Deforestation, driven by logging and land clearance, poses a…

Read More