Build flood-resilient Kashmir

For Kashmir, flood management is not a seasonal administrative exercise but a long-term necessity. More than a decade after the devastating floods of 2014, the Valley continues to face recurring threats from the River Jhelum and its tributaries, making sustained investment in flood protection infrastructure essential for safeguarding lives, livelihoods and public assets. The ongoing expansion of flood mitigation works under the Prime Minister’s Development Package, the Flood Management and Border Areas Programme, the UT Capex Budget and NABARD-backed projects reflects a recognition that resilience must be built through continuous investment rather than emergency response. Strengthening embankments, desilting river channels, restoring flood protection structures and improving irrigation networks are all critical components of a comprehensive strategy. Equally significant is the emphasis on safety audits and vulnerability assessments. Identifying weak points allows limited resources to be directed where they are needed most. The completion of several identified flood mitigation works and the progress on dozens of others indicate movement in the right direction, but the remaining projects must be completed without avoidable delays. Flood management cannot be viewed in isolation. Restoration of irrigation canals, repair of breaches and maintenance of water infrastructure directly support agriculture, which remains the backbone of Kashmir’s rural economy. Healthy waterways not only reduce flood risks but also ensure reliable irrigation during the growing season. However, engineering solutions alone are insufficient. Encroachments on flood channels, unchecked urban expansion, inadequate maintenance and poor coordination among agencies continue to weaken the Valley’s flood resilience. These issues require strict enforcement, scientific planning and regular monitoring throughout the year. Climate variability is increasing the uncertainty of weather patterns, making preparedness more important than ever. Kashmir needs a modern flood management system that combines resilient infrastructure, timely maintenance, effective forecasting, sustainable water conservation and coordinated institutional action. Protecting the Valley from future floods demands a sustained commitment that extends well beyond the monsoon months.