We have failed to acquire awareness from the floods that occurred in 2014; the ongoing unstructured growth and urbanization could result in another enormous flood in the Kashmir valley.

Kashmir Valley, located in the northernmost part of India, is a region of great natural beauty, characterized by snow-capped mountains, scenic valleys, and numerous lakes and rivers. However, this region is also known for its extreme weather conditions, which often result in natural disasters such as cloudbursts and flash floods. In recent years, these phenomena have become increasingly frequent and severe, causing loss of life and extensive damage to property.
Cloudbursts are sudden and intense rainstorms that typically occur in mountainous regions. These storms can dump large amounts of rain in a short period, overwhelming the capacity of rivers and streams to carry the water away. When this happens, flash flooding can occur, in which water rushes down valleys and canyons, carrying debris and causing significant damage to structures and infrastructure.
Kashmir Valley has experienced several devastating cloudbursts and flash floods in recent years. J&K has been ravaged by natural disasters that may be linked to unsustainable development and global warming. According to various research conducted, the intensity of cloudbursts has increased during the last 10-15 years because of massive urbanisation, increased population and higher temperature.
In September 2014, a cloudburst in the town of Leh, in the Ladakh region of the valley, caused widespread damage and claimed the lives of over 250 people.
In July 2016, a cloudburst in the village of Gund in central Kashmir resulted in the death of at least 20 people and caused extensive damage to homes and property.
In 2019, another cloudburst in the Ganderbal district of the valley caused the deaths of two people and damaged many houses and other structures.
On 28 July 2021, a cloudburst dumped torrential rainfall in the Hanzor area of Dachhan in the Kishtwar district of the Jammu region. The rain sent flash floods, mud, rocks and other debris crashing through the community causing widespread damage and fatalities. At least 7 people have died after torrential rain.
On July 08, 2022, the floods struck after a short period of torrential rain, described locally as a cloudburst. At least 16 people died after flash floods swept through the campsite in near the holy Amarnath Cave Temple in Kashmir.
In another tragic incident in July 2022, a flash flood triggered by a possible cloudburst in the upper reaches occurred in the Kullan area of Kangan in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district blocking the Srinagar-Leh highway for traffic. At least, five residential houses besides a huge area of agricultural field suffered damage.
The primary cause of cloudbursts and flash flooding in Kashmir Valley is the changing climate patterns. Rising temperatures have resulted in more frequent and intense rainfall events, making cloudbursts and flash flooding more likely. Deforestation, urbanisation, and land-use changes have also contributed to the problem, as they have reduced the region’s ability to absorb and retain rainfall.
In addition to this, the topography of the valley, with its steep mountain slopes and narrow valleys, exacerbates the impact of cloudbursts and flash flooding. When heavy rainfall occurs, it rapidly flows downhill, accumulating as it goes, and eventually overflows the riverbanks and water channels. The rapid speed and volume of the water can result in significant damage to infrastructure, property, and human lives.
Other factors that can contribute to the likelihood and severity of cloudbursts and flash flooding include poor urban planning, inadequate drainage systems, and poorly constructed buildings and infrastructure. These factors can exacerbate the impact of natural disasters, resulting in more significant damage and loss of life.
Generally, multiple factors contribute to the occurrence of cloudbursts and flash flooding in Kashmir. Climate change, land-use changes, topography, and human factors such as urbanization and poor infrastructure all play a role in exacerbating the impact of these natural disasters. Addressing these underlying causes is crucial to reducing the risks and building resilience in the region.
To mitigate the risks of cloudbursts and flash flooding in Kashmir, several measures need to be taken. First and foremost, there needs to be greater awareness and education among the local population about the risks and how to prepare for them. Early warning systems also need to be put in place, so that people can be alerted to the danger and take appropriate action. This could include evacuation procedures, the construction of flood-resistant structures, and the development of emergency response plans.
Furthermore, steps need to be taken to reduce the impact of climate change in the region. This could include measures such as reforestation, reducing carbon emissions, and promoting sustainable land use practices. Urban planning and development should also take into account the risks of natural disasters, with a focus on building resilience in infrastructure and public spaces.
It is also essential to note that cooperation and coordination among various government agencies and departments are crucial to mitigate the impact of natural disasters in the region. These agencies must work together to develop integrated and comprehensive plans that can effectively reduce the risks and respond to natural disasters. It is also essential to involve the local community in the planning and implementation of risk reduction measures. The local communities can provide valuable insights and knowledge of the area’s geography and weather patterns, which can help in the development of effective mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Moreover, technological solutions such as remote sensing, geographic information systems (GIS), and predictive analytics can also be leveraged to improve preparedness and response to natural disasters. These tools can help in the identification of vulnerable areas, mapping flood-prone areas, and monitoring weather patterns, among other things.
Last but not least, it is essential to build resilience among the affected communities by providing them with the necessary resources and support to recover and rebuild after a natural disaster. This could include financial assistance, access to healthcare, and counselling services to help them cope with the trauma and psychological impact of the disaster.
To put it briefly, cloudbursts and flash flooding are significant meteorological risks in the Kashmir valley. However, by adopting a holistic and integrated approach that involves education, early warning systems, mitigation measures, and community involvement, the risks can be reduced, and the region can become more resilient to these natural disasters. By taking proactive steps to address the underlying causes of these disasters, the region can ensure sustainable development and a better future for its inhabitants.

The author is a researcher, writer, blogger and freelancer. He can be reached at [email protected]

Daawar Bashir Ganaie