19/12/2025
There has been much debate and criticism on increasing levels of smog and pollution in the otherwise beautiful valley of Kashmir in General and Srinagar city in particular. As per reports the Air Quality Index (AQI) touched the figure 300 in the month of November 2025 which is an alarming figure and cause of serious concern.
I am not an expert on the subject, but out of my experience gathered over a period of more than fifteen years in the valley during my service, I have found the following strong reasons for such phenomenon:-
1. The use of tons of Hardcoke and Charcoal every day for heating purposes by the Security Forces, Public & Private offices and even civilian population appears to be the main reason behind the increasing AQI levels in the valley especially Srinagar city. The Central and UT governments will have to find out some alternate heating arrangements in the valley to give a big relief to the local population and the tourists from all over the world.
2. Burning of decayed Chinar leaves towards the end of Autumn season by local population to prepare coal for Kangris is another strong reason for smoke and pollution thereof. In order to get rid of this problem, a blanket ban has to be ordered by the UT government to bring down the AQI levels.
3. The ever increasing number of vehicles of various types in valley especially the diesel and Petrol run vehicles is yet another strong reason for the pollution. In order to minimise the emission levels the UT government will have to encourage introduction of CNG & purchase of Electric Vehicles in the UT of Jammu & Kashmir especially in the capital cities of Jammu & Srinagar. Other measures to reduce the emission levels may also be considered as is being done in New Delhi.
4. Huge construction activities in the towns have to be regulated to lower the pollution levels by the UT government.
5. Sincere efforts are required to be made by the UT government to increase the otherwise shrinking Green Cover in the whole UT. Plantation drives have to be launched in a big way to maintain the eco-balance.
