A green shield against heatwaves, pollution and urban stress
In recent years, Jammu and Kashmir has experienced growing tension between rapid urban development and environmental sustainability. As cities like Jammu and Srinagar continue to grow, they are experiencing more frequent heatwaves, rising air pollution, and shrinking green spaces. This raises a silent but pressing question looms: Are we building cities to live in, or to merely survive in?
Urban forests, defined as networks of trees, parks, green belts, and wooded areas within city limits, may be the answer. Rather than relying on more fans or air conditioners, we should consider urban forests as a solution. They act as a shield of green that cools cities, cleans the air, and heals the mind.
Heatwaves Are No Longer Just A Plains Problem
Summer 2025 has brought record-breaking temperatures to much of Kashmir, with many areas experiencing heat levels never before recorded. Srinagar reached 35°C, higher than usual for this time of year, while Jammu soared past44°C. Scientists point to shrinking green spaces and growing concrete infrastructure as key reasons for these high temperatures.
Urban forests act as natural air conditioners, lowering temperatures by several degrees and reducing the heat island effect. This makes cities more breathable.
Urban forests, which are clusters of native trees within city boundaries, can lower ambient temperatures by 2 to 5°C. They offer a natural and sustainable cooling system.
Cleaner Air, Calmer Minds
The air quality in Jammu and Srinagar has steadily declined due to traffic congestion, ongoing construction projects, and the limited number of green zones. Urban forests help clean the air by trapping dust particles and absorbing carbon dioxide. One mature tree can absorb up to 22 kilograms of COâ‚‚ each year.
Moreover, studies have shown that green spaces can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. In a post-conflict region like Kashmir, where mental health issues are becoming more prevalent, nature therapy in urban green spaces can be an inexpensive yet effective remedy.
Not Just Trees, But Ecosystems
Urban forests are more than just a few saplings planted in the ground. These miniature ecosystems support birds, bees, butterflies, and other species, promoting biodiversity. They help prevent floods, recharge groundwater, improve air quality, and beautify cities, making them more livable.
This aligns with India’s commitments under SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and the National Urban Forest Policy proposed by the Ministry of Environment.
J&K’s Green Plan: What Needs To Be Done
- Adopt a Green Zoning Policy: Protect and expand existing green spaces in city plans.
- Turn Wastelands into Forests: Make use of vacant land, old bus stands, riverbanks, and rooftops.
- Community Forest Drives: Involve students, local communities, and NGOs in plantation projects.
- Link Health with Greenery: Promote ‘green prescriptions’—by encouraging people to spend time in natural spaces.
Conclusion: A Path To A Cooler, Greener Future
Urban forests are not a luxury. In Jammu and Kashmir, they are becoming a necessity for climate and public health. Investing in urban forests now will not only make our cities more livable and resilient in the face of future climate uncertainties.
The question is not whether we can afford to invest in urban forests—it’s whether we can afford not to.
Kaisar Mushtaq
ka*************@***il.com