Dear MEL Topic Readers,
Kashmir's rare snowless winter sets off alarm bells
Kashmir is the northernmost region of the Indian subcontinent. The
average elevation of Kashmir Valley is around 1,800 meters above sea level and the
mountain part rises over 8,000 meters. Depending on the altitude, Kashmir has a
distinct climate for every region but in winter, it is cold and receives heavy
snowfall, which adds to its picturesque charm and brings tourists, skiers, and
other winter sports enthusiasts. Many people and businesses rely on snow for
their winter earnings. Also, snowfall and glaciers are both essential for water
supply in and around the region, which affects hydroelectricity, fisheries, and
farming. However, the region has very little snow in this winter season. Normally
snow-covered ground has been barren and brown since December. Tourists have canceled
their reservations and no skiers are seen on the slopes. Those who depend on winter
tourism are begging for snow. Also, farmers and experts are concerned about water
shortages in the coming spring if underground water is not sufficiently
replenished by melting snow and glaciers. Although people in Kashmir have done
little to the environment, they seem to suffer a lot from climate change.
Read the article and learn about the snow shortage in the Himalayan
region.
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