Kashmir Pen News Desk
SRINAGAR | July 1, 2025 —A prolonged dry spell across the Kashmir Valley has led to a sharp decline in water levels in the Jhelum River and its tributaries, sparking concerns over irrigation and drinking water shortages during the peak summer months.
According to official data from the Irrigation and Flood Control Department, the Jhelum’s water level at Sangam on Monday morning stood at just 0.57 feet—a dramatic fall from the 21-foot flood alert mark. Similarly, low readings were recorded at Munshi Bagh (2.47 ft), Asham (2.57 ft), and Pampore (-1.29 m).
Wullar Lake, a major freshwater reservoir, measured 1574.97 metres, well below its average level of 1578.00 metres.
The tributaries are showing visible signs of stress:
• Rambiyara Nallah at Wachi: –0.43 m
• Lidder Nallah at Batkoot: 0.30 m
• Sindh Nallah at Doderhama: 1.05 m
Independent weather forecaster Faizan Arif Keng told KNO that while the situation is not yet alarming, it could escalate if the dry conditions persist into July. “If this spell continues, shortages in agricultural and remote areas are likely. We’re hoping the monsoon arrives on time,” he said.
The Meteorological Department has forecast partly to generally cloudy skies with brief rain or thundershowers at scattered locations. From July 1 to 5, intermittent rainfall is expected in parts of the valley, with further rain likely between July 6 and 8.
On the ground, the impact is already being felt.
“Our irrigation channels have nearly dried up. Farmers are anxious about their crops,” said Ghulam Nabi from Pulwama.
In urban areas, too, residents are complaining. Ishfaq, a local from Bemina, Srinagar, said, “Water supply is minimal. We can’t rely on tankers forever. The situation is worsening.”
Responding to the crisis, Chief Engineer Jal Shakti Kashmir, Er. Taj Mohammad Chowdhary, confirmed that the department is closely monitoring the situation. “Water tankers have already been deployed in affected urban localities,” he said.
With the valley’s water reserves dipping daily, all eyes are now on the skies—and the timely arrival of the monsoon rains| Kashmir Pen
