Kashmir’s Apple Farming Struggles Amid Heatwave and Climate Change

• Kashmir’s hottest July since 1953 has significantly impacted apple farming, with the famous varieties of Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, and Ambri due for harvest in August.

• The heat spell, shrinking rivers and tributaries, and rising temperatures are causing alarm among farmers.

• The dry spell and heatwave are threatening the size and colour of the fruit, with 10 to 15 kg per tree.

• The region recorded 37.4 degrees Celsius in July, the third-highest since 1946 and the highest since 1953.

• The shift from a temperate zone to sub-tropical weather conditions is alarming, mimicking the weather of Jammu.

• Night temperatures are particularly concerning, with Srinagar recording 24.5 degrees Celsius at night, 6.3 degrees above normal.

• The rapid urbanization in Srinagar has led to a shift towards sub-tropical weather conditions, with vegetation shrinking and dense forests declining.

• The drought-like conditions in Anantnag district, fed by the Kolahoi glacier, have triggered street protests and led to the release of water in a phased manner.

• The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) alleges “unscientific” release of water from Hokersar Wetland in Baramulla, leading to severe ecological damage.

• The government is seeking intervention from Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who is looking at old models of water storage and seeking expert guidance.