In a poignant reflection of the ongoing climate crisis, Kashmir’s renowned Achabal Garden, a Mughal-era masterpiece established by Empress Nur Jahan in the 17th century, is grappling with severe water scarcity for the first time in its storied history. Once celebrated for its lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant natural springs, the garden is now a shadow of its former self, with its iconic fountains and streams running dry.
Local resident and social activist Mushtaq Ahmad expressed his sorrow at the garden’s decline, stating, “We have never witnessed such a change in the Mughal Garden at Achabal drying up. This is the first time we are seeing such a disheartening scene.” The drying up of the Achabal spring has not only impacted the garden but has also led to a drinking water crisis for residents in Achabal and surrounding villages.
As water scarcity escalates, local farmers are increasingly concerned about the implications for agriculture and horticulture. “When water is not available, how can we irrigate our land?” Ahmad asked. “Shortages have already started in nearby areas, and people are suffering as they now rely on water tankers.” He called for collective action to safeguard local water bodies from pollution.
Riyaz Ahmad, another concerned resident, echoed these sentiments: “Achabal Garden is our heritage, a part of our identity. Seeing it dry up is heartbreaking. If immediate action is not taken, we fear it may never be the same again.”
Experts attribute this alarming crisis to a combination of rising temperatures, deficient rainfall, and depleting groundwater levels. A local geographer, explained that “climate change has altered precipitation patterns in Kashmir, affecting the natural springs that have sustained Achabal Garden for centuries.” The reduction in snowfall and prolonged dry spells have further exacerbated the situation.
Gowhar Ahmad, Assistant Executive Engineer of Jal Shakti Achabal, highlighted the broader implications of the spring’s decline. “The Achabal spring catered to over a dozen villages, with as many as 15 water supply schemes depending on the source,” he noted. With the spring now dry, tanker services have become essential for providing water to affected villages. “Almost 80 percent of the area has been affected due to the drying up of the spring,” he added.
