Budgam, Sep 3 : Heavy floodwaters have entered residential areas in Dangerpora Wathoora of Chadoora in Central Kashmir’s Budgam district, causing damage to several houses and household items.

Locals said that the water gushed into homes late this evening, submerging ground floors and forcing families to shift belongings to safer places. Panic spread among residents as continuous rains intensified the situation.

Police and district administration officials rushed to the spot to assess the situation and extend assistance to the affected families. Authorities said that relief and evacuation measures are being coordinated, while efforts are on to monitor the rising water levels.

In view of the deteriorating weather conditions, including thunderstorms and lightning, Budgam Police and the District Administration have activated round-the-clock emergency helplines. Residents can seek immediate help through Budgam Police Control Room numbers 01951-255207, 01951-255042, and 8082567612.

Emergency contact numbers of local Station House Officers include: SHO Budgam 7006411196, SHO Chadoora 7006411196, SHO Khansahib 9596000212, SHO Charar-e-Sharief 9797279660, SHO Magam 9906449794, SHO Beerwah 7006252476, and SHO Khag 9419905840.

All tehsildars across Budgam district have also been alerted to assist residents with relocation, emergency relief, and damage reporting.

Authorities have advised people to remain indoors, avoid waterlogged areas, switch off electricity in inundated homes, and keep mobile phones charged for emergency contact. Families have been urged to prioritize the safety of elders, children, and differently-abled persons.

The district administration said that the situation is being monitored closely and further updates will be shared as required. [KNT]

Srinagar, Sep 3: The Divisional Commissioner Kashmir on Wednesday issued an advisory for the public in view of the prevailing weather conditions that have led to rising water levels in several water bodies across the Valley.

According to the Indian Meteorological Department, rains are likely to continue till mid-day. The administration has deployed field teams to monitor the situation closely and has put contingency measures in place to deal with any eventuality.

Authorities have urged people to remain cautious and avoid venturing near rivers, streams, and other water bodies during this period.

For emergencies, people can contact the helpline numbers 112 and 6005953255. [KNT]

Jammu, Sept 3 2025 HT: Several parts of Jammu and Kashmir witnessed heavy rainfall in the past 24 hours, with Reasi topping the chart at 203 mm between 0830 hrs yesterday and 0530 hrs today.

According to official rainfall data, Katra received 193 mm, Batote 157.3 mm, Doda 114 mm, Banihal 95 mm, Baderwah 96.2 mm, and Ramban 82 mm of rain. Jammu observatory recorded 81 mm, Samba 48 mm, Rajouri 57.4 mm, and Kishtwar 50 mm during the same period.

In Kashmir division, Kokernag received 68.2 mm, Qazigund 68 mm, Pahalgam 55 mm, while Srinagar observatory recorded 32 mm of rainfall.

The continuous downpour has raised concerns about landslides, flash floods, and disruption of surface transport in hilly districts. Authorities have advised people living in low-lying and landslide-prone areas to remain cautious.

Langate,Jul,21:The Forest Division of Langate is witnessing a distressing environmental crisis as the growing cover of young saplings often referred to as "green gold" is being systematically destroyed by unknown miscreants. The saplings, now at their final stage of growth, have been targeted alongside mature trees, causing serious ecological concern in the area.

According to reports, dozens of fully grown trees have been illegally axed, while the bark of many others has been deliberately damaged in Compartment No. 1/2 in Rajwar and Compartment No. 1/A Mawar in Gund Chobtara block of Qaziabad. Hundreds of young saplings, the future green canopy of the region, have also been cut down mercilessly.

Local sources have alleged that this destruction is a result of gross negligence by concerned forest officials. The situation has drawn sharp criticism from across the region. Officials from district administration, police, and civil departments, as well as civil society organizations from Kashmir Division, have strongly condemned the incident, calling it a brutal attack on the region's fragile environment.

Speaking to the media, Dr. Shaikh Owais, a local Ph.D research scholar, termed the situation in Qaziabad forests as "alarming." He emphasized the urgent need for public awareness, saying, “People must understand the long-term damage caused by deforestation. Climate change and rising heatwaves are deeply linked to such environmental destruction. Protecting these green siblings is essential for our future generations.”

In response to public outcry, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Langate stated while talking to Headlines Today that an official team has been constituted to conduct a ground-level assessment in Rajwar and Qaziabad. “Once the report is submitted, we will take strict action against the miscreants and any negligent officials involved, in accordance with the Forest Act and Government service rules,” he said.

The DFO further appealed to local civil society members, social activists, and educated citizens to cooperate with the department in identifying the culprits. He added, “It is not just the department’s duty — it is a collective responsibility to promote afforestation and raise awareness about the serious consequences of deforestation.” The Forest Division has also registered formal cases regarding the incidents at both Rajwar and Mawar.

Meanwhile, Civil Society Forum Kashmir has demanded immediate and strict action against those responsible, and has called for clear accountability of forest officials in Langate Division.

The incident has once again brought to the forefront the urgent need for better forest protection, stronger community engagement, and stricter enforcement of environmental laws to safeguard Kashmir’s invaluable green wealth.

Srinagar, July 16 : Amid growing weather concerns, the Meteorological Department Srinagar has issued a comprehensive advisory for Jammu and Kashmir, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall, flash floods, and increased risk of landslides in the coming days. The warning comes as the region witnesses a shift in weather, following days of relentless heat.

According to Director MET, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, the weather is expected to remain generally cloudy between July 16–17 and again from July 21–23, with intermittent spells of light to moderate rain and thundershowers across various parts of the Union Territory. He warned that isolated locations are likely to experience intense showers and even heavy to very heavy rainfall during these two periods, which may trigger flash floods and landslides, particularly in vulnerable areas and along mountainous routes.

In the intervening period from July 18 to 20, scattered to fairly widespread regions are also expected to receive light to moderate rainfall. The advisory has urged residents, especially those living in flood-prone and slide-prone zones, to stay alert, avoid unnecessary travel, and closely monitor official updates. Authorities have also been advised to take precautionary measures to prevent disruption and ensure public safety, particularly on major highways and hilly terrain that may witness shooting stones and mudslides.

The region has already received rainfall over the past two days, providing much-needed relief from the recent heatwave that had gripped both Kashmir and Jammu divisions. According to the latest data, several areas in both regions have experienced varying amounts of rainfall.

In the Kashmir Valley, southern districts witnessed relatively higher rainfall, with Kulgam receiving 19.2 mm, followed closely by Pahalgam at 16.6 mm. Gulmarg recorded 17.2 mm, Awantipora 14 mm, and both Tangmarg and Nowgam Handwara around 14 mm. Light to moderate showers were also reported in other areas such as Kokernag, Qazigund, Sonamarg, and Charar-i-Sharief. Srinagar city received 6.3 mm of rain, while its airport recorded 6.8 mm. Pulwama and Kupwara received 8 mm and 7 mm respectively, while Sopore, Bandipora, and Shopian reported lighter precipitation.

In the Jammu region, the highest rainfall was recorded in Udhampur at 46 mm, followed by Katra with 37.8 mm, Reasi with 27 mm, and Rajouri at 23 mm. Jammu city and its airport reported rainfall amounts of 17.9 mm and 15.6 mm respectively. Poonch received 14 mm, while Banihal, Batote, and Ramban recorded rainfall between 5 to 7 mm. Kathua, however, did not receive any rainfall during this period.

Meanwhile, in the Ladakh region, Leh and Kargil also received some rain, with 3.6 mm and 1.5 mm recorded respectively over the past 24 hours.

The MET Department urged the public to exercise caution and follow advisories to mitigate any risk arising from extreme weather conditions. [KNT]

Kreeri, 07 July (HT) -Residents of the Kreeri area in North Kashmir's Baramulla district protested against the Irrigation Department, accusing it of failing to supply water to their agricultural lands during the crucial farming season.

Local farmers expressed serious concerns about the drying conditions of their land, stating that the unavailability of irrigation water has severely affected their ability to cultivate crops. "Our fields are parched due to the lack of water. The irrigation system has collapsed, and no official has addressed the issue despite our repeated appeals," stated one of the protesting farmers.

The villagers appealed to the Deputy Commissioner of Baramulla and the Assistant Executive Engineer (AEE) of irrigation and flood control to take immediate action. They urged the authorities to activate the Irrigation Department in Kreeri and ensure the restoration of the water supply so that agricultural activities can resume without further losses.

The residents emphasised that agriculture is their primary source of livelihood, and continued neglect of irrigation infrastructure could lead to economic distress for the entire region.

In a statement to Headlines Today, Zildar Canals mentioned that water will be restored in the Babul Canal by this afternoon.

**Jammu, 29.06.2025** - As part of ongoing efforts to enhance green cover and promote ecological balance, a plantation drive was organised by the JKAP 8th Battalion, Miran Sahib Jammu, in collaboration with the Social Forestry Department at Ghu Manhasan, Marh, District Jammu. The initiative was supervised by Sh. Suram Singh, JKPS (SSP), Commandant of the JKAP 8th Battalion.

In this initiative, over 1,000 saplings of various native and environmentally friendly species were selected for their resilience and ecological benefits. Officers and staff from both departments actively participated in the drive.

Speaking on the occasion, Sh. Suram Singh emphasised the importance of community involvement in forest conservation efforts. He noted that collaboration with the Social Forestry Department is a crucial step toward restoring the natural environment and mitigating the impacts of climate change. In addition to these benefits, the plantation aims to prevent soil erosion and protect the land from the adverse effects of floods during the upcoming rainy season, while also enhancing the beauty of the area adjacent to the Tawi River.

The Social Forestry Department provided technical support, saplings, and expert guidance for the drive, ensuring that the planning and planting of species were suitable for the region. This green initiative not only aims to improve the local environment but also seeks to raise public awareness about the critical role trees play in maintaining ecological balance. 

During the drive, 300 members of the JKAP 8th Battalion participated, alongside personnel from the Social Forestry Department, including the department's officers. The team was led by Sh. Majid Sofi, Range Officer, for this noble cause.

Srinagar, Apr 21: According to the Meteorological Department, after two days of relentless rain in the plains and snowfall in the higher reaches, Jammu and Kashmir is likely to see a significant improvement in weather conditions starting today.

While the overall forecast suggests calm weather ahead, isolated to scattered thunderstorm activity is still possible in some parts of the Union Territory, particularly during the afternoon and evening hours.

The department confirmed that no major weather disturbance is expected in the coming days, bringing much-needed relief to residents, especially in areas like Ramban, where flash floods and landslides caused devastation over the weekend.

“This is a welcome development after widespread rainfall and snow disrupted normal life in several areas. We are closely monitoring the possibility of localized weather events, but overall, conditions are stabilizing,” a MeT official told the news agency Kashmir News Trust.

Despite the improving forecast, authorities have advised people in vulnerable areas to remain cautious, particularly in regions prone to landslides and flash floods, where the ground remains saturated and unstable.

The clearer skies are expected to aid ongoing rescue and relief operations in flood-affected districts and improve road connectivity, including restoration work on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. [KNT]

Srinagar, Mar 3: The Environmental Policy Group (EPG), in collaboration with The Institution of Engineers (India), Jammu & Kashmir State Centre, organized a workshop on "Water, Weather, and Well-Being: Climate Change in the Kashmir Valley," highlighting the pressing environmental challenges facing the region.

Vice Chancellor of Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Professor Shakil Romshoo, who was the chief guest, stressed that Kashmir, despite contributing minimally to global emissions, is disproportionately suffering from climate change. He cited alarming trends such as erratic precipitation, prolonged dry spells, and rising temperatures, which are impacting water resources and agriculture, particularly saffron cultivation.

International development specialist Arjumund Hussain Talib warned that Jammu & Kashmir is projected to face a 60% food deficit due to climate change. He advocated for an "Environmental Cess" to fund adaptation and mitigation efforts, particularly targeting high-pollution industries like tourism and construction.

Dr. Khurshid Iqbal, former head of cardiology at SKIMS, linked rising respiratory illnesses to environmental degradation, poor air quality, and increased pollution. RTI activist Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat raised alarm over the impending water crisis, warning that by 2030, clean drinking water may become scarce due to pollution and unregulated mining.

Experts, including scientist Maajid Farooq and former SMC Commissioner Dr. GN Qasba, stressed the importance of data-driven policy decisions, urban planning, and community engagement in climate adaptation. Former Agriculture Director Altaf Ahmad Andrabi emphasized the need for farmers to shift to climate-resilient crops.

The workshop concluded with a commitment to compile key findings into a comprehensive report, which will be submitted to the government for policy implementation. [KNT]

Anantnag, Feb 26: The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) has strongly condemned the shocking felling of centuries-old Chinar trees in Rani Bagh, Anantnag, calling it a grave violation of heritage and environmental laws. The trees, believed to be over 500 years old, held immense historical, cultural, and ecological significance, making their destruction deeply distressing.

This incident comes despite the Jammu and Kashmir government's recent geo-tagging initiative aimed at safeguarding Chinars across the region. The move has sparked outrage among environmentalists and locals, who see it as a blatant disregard for conservation efforts.

"This is not an isolated case," EPG stated, highlighting that infrastructure projects, such as the widening of the Narbal-Delina road, have led to the uprooting of over 100 Chinar trees. The organization had previously protested against Chinar cutting in the parking area of the Wildlife Warden Kashmir’s office at Hokersar Wetland. The ongoing expansion of the Narabal-Baramulla Road has further worsened the situation, with more Chinars being removed up to Delina.

EPG criticized the administration for failing to enforce the Jammu and Kashmir Preservation of Specified Trees Act, 1969, which strictly prohibits the felling of Chinars without special permissions. "The Chinar is not just a tree; it is an emblem of Kashmir’s identity and a vital ecological asset," the group asserted, emphasizing its role in temperature regulation, biodiversity conservation, and combating deforestation.

Demanding urgent intervention, EPG has called for an independent investigation into the Rani Bagh incident and similar violations across the region. "Those responsible—whether officials or contractors—must be held accountable under the law," the organization insisted. It further urged authorities to ensure that future development projects prioritize alternative solutions that protect Chinars and other heritage trees.

The group also stressed the need to strengthen the geo-tagging and monitoring system under the Chinar Conservation Project to prevent further damage. "If such violations continue unchecked, Kashmir will lose not just its environmental wealth, but also a living symbol of its rich cultural heritage," EPG warned. [KNT]

Langate, Feb,25:In a proactive effort to strengthen forest fire preparedness, the Langate Forest Division, in collaboration with BSF Naugam, SDH Langate, the Wildlife Department, and the Fire & Emergency Services (F&ES), organized a one-day workshop on forest fire management and mitigation strategies.

The workshop focused on equipping frontline forest personnel with essential skills in fire prevention, suppression techniques, jungle survival, first aid, and CPR. Experts from the Fire and Emergency Services, Border Security Forces, and the Health Department provided valuable training and guidance, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience for the participants.

With over 100 frontline forest staff in attendance, the event underscored the importance of timely intervention and inter-departmental coordination in effectively tackling forest fires. Officials also stressed the need for greater community awareness and involvement in minimizing fire incidents, recognizing the role of local residents in early detection and prevention.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance forest protection mechanisms in the region, ensuring a swift and coordinated response to fire emergencies. By fostering collaboration between various agencies and improving the preparedness of forest personnel, the Langate Forest Division aims to mitigate the risks associated with forest fires and safeguard the region’s biodiversity.

Srinagar, Feb 25: In a disturbing environmental violation, dozens of majestic Chinar trees have been illegally felled in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district, with authorities allegedly turning a blind eye to the destruction. The chopping down of these majestic trees, despite strict regulations for their preservation, has sparked outrage among locals.

Sources reveal that while authorities granted limited permissions to contractors for pruning branches, many misused the approvals and chopped down entire trees to extract maximum wood. This large-scale felling has been reported from multiple areas, including Rani Bagh, Sarnal, and Kadipora, where the once-thriving Chinar trees now lie in ruins.

 Locals have expressed deep concern over the administration’s inaction, questioning why no measures have been taken to curb the illegal felling despite the availability of geo-tagging technology meant to protect these heritage trees. “These trees have stood for centuries, providing shade, beauty, and a crucial ecological balance. But vested interests are axing them in broad daylight, and officials are doing nothing,” a local from Anantnag said.

The Chinar tree, which holds immense historical and cultural significance in Kashmir, is a protected species under the Jammu and Kashmir Preservation of Specified Trees Act, 1969. Under this law, even pruning requires official permission, yet entire trees are being cut with impunity.

  Locals and environmental activists have demanded immediate action, urging the administration to identify and penalize those involved in the illegal felling. They have also called for a thorough probe into how contractors managed to exploit the permissions and why authorities have failed to intervene.

 “If the destruction continues unchecked, Anantnag and other parts of Kashmir risk losing a vital part of their natural heritage, further exacerbating environmental degradation in the region,” said an elderly man from Kadipora. [KNT]