Srinagar: The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) on Saturday observed the 10th year of the 2014 floods that had devastated Kashmir, displaced thousands and caused severe environmental damage.
On the occasion, experts called for environmental conservation, sustainable practices and community support to overcome the climate challenges.
The experts said the 2014 floods were a “wake-up call for all of us”. They highlighted the fragility of Kashmir’s environment and the urgent need for sustainable water management and conservation. “We must act now to ensure that future generations inherit a more resilient and eco-friendly Kashmir,” said one of the experts.
On the occasion, key environmental issues were discussed, including climate change and its impact on Kashmir, equitable water management, ecosystem restoration and conservation and community-led initiatives for environmental resilience.
Experts called for working on important issues like environmental protection, preparedness and sustainable development. “The flood was not merely a natural disaster but a reminder of how fragile our environment is. We need to rethink how we manage our resources and adapt to the changing climate. It can be done through sustainable practices and community involvement to safeguard our future,” said Faiz Bakshi, a member of EPG. He said that EPG has drawn valuable lessons from the past and has renewed its commitment to promoting eco-friendly policies and practices, supporting climate-resilient infrastructure and empowering local communities to take ownership of environmental stewardship.
