Assessing the Climate Change Impacts in the Jhelum Basin of North-Western Himalayas

Abstract

Climate change, a critical global environmental crisis, profoundly impacts ecosystems, particularly in regions with delicate environmental balances. This study focuses on the Jhelum basin in the north-western Himalayas, examining the extensive effects of climate change on glaciers, snow cover, land use and land cover (LULC), land surface temperature (LST), water resources, and natural hazards. Rising temperatures have accelerated glacier melting and altered precipitation patterns, with significant implications for local water supplies and agriculture. The study analyses climate data from the Indian Meteorological Department (1990 to 2020), revealing increasing trends in both maximum and minimum temperatures, alongside variable precipitation trends across different locations. The retreat of glaciers and the expansion of glacial lakes have been observed, with lower-elevation glaciers showing the most significant reduction. LULC changes indicate a shift from agricultural land to settlements and horticulture, while LST has risen, particularly in urbanized areas, reflecting the impact of urbanization and climate change. Furthermore, the increased frequency of extreme weather events, such as floods and landslides, exacerbates the region’s vulnerability, threatening infrastructure, biodiversity, and local communities. The findings highlight the necessity of comprehensive, integrated approaches to address climate change and ensure the resilience of the Jhelum basin. This research contributes valuable insights into the region’s changing environmental dynamics, essential for informed decision-making and effective adaptation strategies in response to the ongoing climate crisis.