The drying of Achabal Spring, one of Kashmir's most historic and charming springs, is a growing concern attributed to multiple environmental, geological, and human-induced factors. Climate change, marked by erratic precipitation patterns and decreasing snowfall in the Pir Panjal range, has significantly impacted groundwater recharge, while rising temperatures have increased evaporation rates. Deforestation and unplanned land use changes have further disrupted the hydrological cycle, reducing percolation and ultimately affecting the spring's discharge. Additionally, excessive groundwater extraction for agriculture and urban expansion in Anantnag district can be attributed to depleting the aquifer that feeds Achabal Spring. Hydrogeological changes, including seismic activity and sediment accumulation, could also be altering the underground water channels. Encroachments and infrastructure development near the spring are further exacerbating the issue by interfering with the water table and natural flow patterns.The drying of Achabal Spring is a relatively recent phenomenon, but concerns about its declining water flow have been raised over the past few decades. Historically, Achabal Spring has been a vital water source, dating back to the Mughal era when it was developed into a royal garden by Empress Nur Jahan in the early 17th century. The spring, originating from the Bringi River system in the PirPanjal mountains, has traditionally maintained a steady flow, sustaining local communities and enhancing the region’s cultural and ecological significance.

Discharge and Benefits of Water

Achabal Spring, located in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, has historically been a vital water source for both potable use and irrigation. The spring's average discharge rate is approximately 0.67 cubic meters per second (m³/s), equating to a total flow of about 2.76 million cubic meters (Mm³) over a six-month period. This water has been essential for irrigating an estimated command area of 14.69 square kilometers (km²), supporting both agricultural and horticultural activities in the region. However, the crop water requirement for this area is approximately 10.65 Mm³ over the same period, indicating that the spring's discharge falls short of meeting the full irrigation demands.
In addition to its role in irrigation, Achabal Spring has been a crucial source of potable water for local communities. It has supplied drinking water to over a dozen villages through 15 water supply schemes. The recent drying up of the spring has severely impacted these schemes, leading to acute water shortages and necessitating the use of tanker services to supply drinking water to the affected areas. The decline in the spring's discharge is attributed to factors such as climate change, reduced precipitation, and depleting groundwater levels. This situation underscores the need for immediate conservation efforts to restore the spring's flow and ensure the sustainability of water resources for both drinking and agricultural purposes in the region.Since long-term hydrological studies establish these patterns by comparing past and present discharge rates of Achabal Spring, revealing a consistent decline.

Factors Responsible for Declining discharge

The reports of reduced water discharge began emerging in the late 20th century, with a more noticeable decline in the 21st century. By the 2000s, factors such as erratic rainfall, deforestation in the catchment areas, and increased urbanization had begun affecting groundwater recharge. In recent years, the situation has worsened due to climate change-induced shifts in precipitation patterns, over-extraction of groundwater, and encroachments near the spring. Periodic fluctuations in water levels have been observed, with some instances of near-dry conditions raising alarms among conservationists and local authorities.Climate change is one of the key factors contributing to the drying of Achabal Spring, but it is not the sole cause. Rising temperatures, shifting precipitation patterns, and reduced snowfall in the PirPanjal range, which feeds the Bringi River system, have significantly impacted groundwater recharge. The region has been experiencing erratic rainfall, leading to periods of drought followed by intense but short-lived rainfall, which reduces water infiltration and affects spring flow. Additionally, declining snow cover has resulted in less meltwater, which historically sustained Achabal Spring during the dry months.Changes in land use, including increased construction activity, have also altered natural drainage patterns, reducing the recharge of underground aquifers.While climate change is accelerating the decline of Achabal Spring, it is the combination of environmental and anthropogenic factors that has led to the ongoing crisis.

Formation of Ponors

Recent formation of ponors or swallow holes locally known as sink hole had formed in February 2022 in the Brengiriver at Wandevelgam in South Kashmir's causing significant portion of the river’s water disappear underground this geological formation could also belinked to the drying of Achabal Spring. The Brengi River disappeared into fissures in the limestone at Dewalgam village, and this subterranean flow is believed to re-emerge at Achabal Spring. After the disappearance of water and formation of ponor approximately a month later there was a suddenincrease in water oozing at the Achabal spring which is 16 kms away from it. The geological composition of the area,primarily soluble limestone facilitates formation underground channels and swallow holes has all potential to affect surface water and discharge. Historical accounts, such as Sir Walter Lawrence's "The Valley of Kashmir," mention that the Brengi River's disappearance at Dewalgam is the true source of Achabal Spring. Additionally, tests involving the release of chaff into the river at the point of disappearance have shown the chaff emerging at Achabal Spring, supporting this connection. Therefore, disturbances in the river's flow, like the formation of swallow holes, can directly impact the water supply to Achabal Spring, leading to its drying. The depletion in water flow is sometimes also affected by indiscriminate interference of man with river system like river bed excavation, excess installation of bore wells and diversion which need to be examined.

Impact on Agriculture and economy

The progressive decline of Achabal Spring highlights the broader water crisis in Kashmir, where many traditional water bodies are facing similar threats. While efforts have been made to conserve the spring, including desilting and afforestation programs, long-term sustainability requires a more structured approach involving scientific research, community participation, and strict regulation of water resources. The drying of Achabal Spring has had significant consequences for water supply and agriculture in the region, affecting both local communities, economy, tourism and the broader ecosystem. Traditionally, the spring has been a vital water source for domestic use, irrigation, and cultural heritage, but its decline has led to water shortages in nearby villages and towns, particularly in Anantnag district. Many residents who once relied on the spring for drinking water now face increased dependency on groundwater, which is already under stress due to excessive extraction.
For agriculture, the impact will be very severe. The spring has historically contributed to irrigation, supporting paddy fields, orchards, and vegetable farms in the surrounding areas. With reduced water availability, farmers are struggling to maintain crop yields, leading to economic losses and food insecurity. Many have turned to borewells and other artificial water sources, further depleting groundwater reserves and creating a cycle of unsustainable water use. The reduced flow of water from Achabal also affects downstream ecosystems, leading to habitat degradation for aquatic life and reduced soil moisture, which impacts overall agricultural productivity.
Additionally, the decline of Achabal Spring has cultural and tourism-related consequences. The historic Mughal Garden, which relies on the spring's water channels, faces maintenance challenges, affecting tourism revenue and local livelihoods. Without immediate intervention through water conservation and sustainable land management practices, the situation could worsen, further threatening both the ecological balance and economic stability of the region.

Measures to Restoration of Discharge

Restoring the oozing of Achabal Spring requires a combination of watershed management, groundwater recharge, climate adaptation, and policy-driven measures to revive its natural water system. Reforesting the catchment area and implementing soil conservation techniques such as contour trenching and check dams can help enhance groundwater infiltration while reducing erosion. Artificial recharge structures like infiltration ponds and recharge wells can further support aquifer replenishment. Additionally, regulating excessive groundwater extraction and controlling borewell drilling in the surrounding areas will prevent depletion of the water table. Desilting the spring and clearing obstructions in underground water channels are also essential steps in restoring its natural flow. Preventing illegal encroachments and unplanned urban development near the spring will help maintain its ecological integrity. Climate adaptation strategies, such as monitoring rainfall and snowmelt patterns, along with promoting water-efficient agricultural practices like drip irrigation, can further support sustainable water use. Community awareness campaigns are crucial to educating residents on conservation practices, while stronger government policies can ensure the long-term protection of the spring through strict environmental regulations. By integrating these strategies, Achabal Spring can be rejuvenated, securing its role as a vital water source for the region.

Immediate Government Initiatives Needed

The government must take immediate action to prevent the complete drying of Achabal Spring and ensure its long-term sustainability. The first priority should be declaring Achabal Spring a protected water source under environmental conservation laws to prevent further encroachments and degradation. Strict restrictions on groundwater extraction in the surrounding areas, especially on borewell drilling, must be enforced to prevent aquifer depletion. A scientific hydrological study should be conducted to assess the spring’s underground water channels, identify blockages, and develop targeted restoration strategies.Simultaneously, desilting and cleaning operations must be carried out to remove accumulated debris and restore the spring’s natural flow. To enhance groundwater recharge, the government should launch a large-scale afforestation program in the catchment area and construct artificial recharge structures such as check dams and infiltration ponds. Immediate repair and conservation efforts in the historic Achabal Garden must also be undertaken to prevent further deterioration due to water shortages.
Additionally, community participation programs should be introduced to educate locals on sustainable water usage, while financial incentives could be provided to farmers for adopting water-efficient irrigation techniques. A Spring Rejuvenation Task Force should be set up with experts in hydrogeology, environmental science, and urban planning to oversee these efforts. Only a coordinated and urgent government response can ensure that Achabal Spring is preserved for future generations.

Public Responsibility

The people of the region have a crucial role in restoring and preserving Achabal Spring, as community participation is essential for the success of any conservation effort. First and foremost, residents must adopt water conservation practices by reducing wastage, using water-efficient irrigation techniques, and avoiding excessive groundwater extraction through unregulated borewells. Farmers, in particular, should shift to sustainable irrigation methods such as drip irrigation to minimize water use and reduce pressure on underground aquifers.Equally important is protecting the spring’s catchment area by preventing deforestation, planting more trees, and avoiding construction activities that disrupt natural water flow. Encroachments near the spring and illegal land use changes must be actively opposed, with locals working alongside authorities to prevent further degradation. Waste disposal management is another key responsibility—people must ensure that garbage, plastic, and sewage are not dumped into or near the spring, as pollution can further deteriorate its ecosystem. All Community members should also raise awareness and advocate for conservation by educating others about the importance of Achabal Spring and participating in government or NGO-led restoration initiatives. Forming local water conservation groups can help monitor and report illegal activities affecting the spring while promoting best practices for its preservation. By taking collective responsibility and working in collaboration with authorities, people can play a direct role in ensuring that Achabal Spring is rejuvenated and sustained for future generations.

Note Caution

The impressions of climate change on Achabal Spring and similar water sources are observed and established through scientific analysis of hydrological, meteorological, and ecological indicators. The most evident impact is reduced water discharge, which is linked to declining precipitation and altered snowfall patterns in the PirPanjal range. Satellite imagery and remote sensing further confirm shrinking snow cover and glacier retreat, both of which are critical for sustaining Kashmir’s water bodies.Another key observation is the shift in precipitation pattern. As such addressing this crisis requires an immediate and a multi-pronged approach, including watershed management through reforestation, regulation of groundwater use, scientific studies to restore disrupted water channels, and increased community awareness. Government intervention with stricter policies on conservation and resource monitoring is crucial to ensuring the sustainability of Achabal Spring for future generations. Intense but short-lived rainfall leads to increased surface runoff rather than groundwater infiltration, further reducing spring recharge. Rising temperatures, another hallmark of climate change, have accelerated evapotranspiration, causing water sources to dry up more quickly. Saving Kashmir as whole and each place at micro level from the onslaught of climate change is our collective responsibility because we owe it to the posterity.

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