Kashmir's Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has acknowledged the ongoing water crisis, emphasizing the urgent need for improved water management and conservation strategies.

The recent rainfall and snowfall on February 23, 2025, have provided some relief, but concerns about climate change's impact on local water resources remain high.

Weather officials report that since the beginning of 2025, Kashmir has experienced over an 80% deficit in rain and snow, coupled with daytime temperatures consistently 5 to 8 degrees Celsius above normal.

The water crisis coincides with alarming global climate trends, as 2024 was recorded as the hottest year ever, raising concerns about long-term ecological impacts.

The crisis has led to the cancellation of national winter games in Gulmarg, a popular tourist destination, significantly affecting local tourism.

Authorities have initiated an investigation into the reasons behind the spring's disappearance, as multiple streams and tributaries of the Jhelum River have also dried up.

A viral video of an elderly woman praying at the dry spring has captured the emotional distress of the community, highlighting the deep connection locals have with this vital water source.

Kashmir is grappling with a significant water crisis, marked by the unprecedented drying of an ancient spring for the first time in living memory.

This spring, located in Achabal town and established in the 17th century by Mughal Emperor Jahangir's wife, serves as a vital water source for 20 nearby villages.

Experts attribute these drastic weather changes to global climate change, describing the situation as a 'new normal' for the ecologically fragile region.

Residents are increasingly worried about the implications of climate change on Kashmir's water bodies, which are crucial for agriculture and local orchards.

The drying of the spring has not only affected water supply but has also sparked broader discussions about climate resilience and sustainable water management in the region.