Dry ‘Chillai Kalan’ may cast impact on agriculture: Experts

Experts are of the opinion that the constant dry weather without rains particularly snowfall during 40 day harsh winter period ‘Chillai Kalan’, is likely to cast impact on the weather patterns and the horticulture and agriculture industries of the region.

The plains in Kashmir are yet to receive snowfall this year.

The India Meteorological Department has predicted weather to remain dry in Jammu and Kashmir till January 27.

The sun remained shining with warmth even on the 34 day of Chillai Kalan frustrating the people affiliated with agriculture and horticulture.

In contrast to other places having man-made dams, Kashmir region has glaciers and accumulated snow that releases water when it is needed for agriculture and drinking purposes particularly in summers.

According to experts now the increasing winter temperature has melted these glaciers and prevented accumulation of snow that has the potential to spell a disaster for water availability during summers.

The experts believe that Kashmir valley will experience an increase of temperature by 3 to 4 degrees and urban dwellers would have to go mad for snowfall if the prevailing weather patterns remained constant.

Experts and elders a couple of decades back several feet of snow and sun hiding behind clouds for weeks, was a normal during winters especially ‘Chilai Kalaan’.