By: Ginkgo Gulzar
Many experts believe that investing in the Jhelum River could reduce floods and protect agriculture in Kashmir more effectively than large infrastructure spending on railways. Kashmir’s economy depends heavily on agriculture, horticulture, and wetlands, all of which are closely connected to the health and flow of the Jhelum River. When the river is neglected, the entire valley becomes vulnerable to flooding, soil damage, and crop loss.
The devastating 2014 Kashmir Floods showed how dangerous an unmanaged river system can be. Thousands of homes were damaged, farmland remained underwater for weeks, and farmers suffered major financial losses. Experts later pointed out that excessive siltation, blocked flood channels, and shrinking wetlands had reduced the river’s natural capacity to carry water safely. If proper dredging and river management had been maintained, the impact of the floods could have been significantly reduced.
Agriculture in areas such as Pampore and other parts of the Kashmir Valley depends on stable water conditions. Crops like saffron, vegetables, and orchards are sensitive to waterlogging. When the Jhelum overflows, fertile soil becomes damaged and productivity declines. Regular river dredging, strengthening of embankments, and restoration of flood channels could protect thousands of hectares of farmland and improve long-term agricultural income.
Another important factor is the role of wetlands. Wetlands connected to the river, such as Wular Lake, naturally store excess floodwater. Over time, many wetlands have shrunk due to siltation and encroachment, reducing their ability to absorb water during heavy rains. Restoring these wetlands would help regulate river flow and reduce flood risks across the valley.
Investment in the Jhelum River would also create local employment. River dredging, embankment strengthening, wetland restoration, and irrigation improvements require continuous work and could provide jobs for local communities. Unlike railway projects that mainly benefit transport corridors, river projects directly support farmers and rural populations.
Environmental stability is another major advantage. A healthy river system supports fisheries, groundwater recharge, and soil fertility. Cleaner and better-managed river water would improve irrigation quality and reduce long-term environmental damage. Sustainable river management could also protect biodiversity and maintain ecological balance in the valley.
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For these reasons, many experts believe that long-term investment in the Jhelum River system would provide stronger protection for agriculture, reduce disaster risks, and support sustainable economic development in Kashmir. A balanced development strategy that includes both transportation and river management would offer the greatest benefits for the region’s future.
