Srinagar, August 29: Senior religious leader and chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has labeled the recent tragedy in Nepal as a warning. He emphasized the urgent need to maintain a balance between development and environmental conservation.
While delivering a sermon at the historic Jamia Masjid in the Nowhatta area of Srinagar, he urged everyone to reflect seriously on the devastation occurring in Nepal and the broader Himalayan region, noting that these are not isolated incidents.
He stated, “These events serve as a warning about how vulnerable our mountainous ecosystems have become due to glacier melt. During this difficult time, we express our solidarity with the people of Nepal. We pray for those who have lost their lives, for the safety and swift recovery of those missing, and for strength and relief for all affected.”
Mirwaiz pointed out that Jammu and Kashmir is part of the same fragile Himalayan belt. “We are already witnessing increased rainfall, cloudbursts, sudden floods, and landslides. Climate change is undoubtedly a significant factor, but we must also question whether our approach to development is exacerbating the situation.”
He highlighted that the natural beauty of Kashmir, filled with mountains, lakes, and rivers, attracts tourists and is a vital source of livelihood for the local population.
“However, the reckless exploitation of this ecology in the name of trade and development is alarming,” he warned.
He cautioned that mountains are being cut and blasted for roads, trees are being felled, environmentally sensitive areas are being developed with hotels and buildings, and natural water flows are being obstructed.
“If this continues without proper scientific and environmental safeguards, we are creating conditions for even greater disasters in the future. The ongoing encroachment on wetlands, lakes, and flood pathways is equally concerning.”
He urged the public not to encroach upon or construct in these areas. “Wetlands are not wastelands; they are natural buffers that absorb excess water and protect human settlements.”
Referring to the Dal Lake, Mirwaiz remarked, “We need only look at the condition of our Dal Lake to understand how prolonged encroachment, construction, and neglect of the environment can damage a precious natural system. It is shrinking day by day while we turn a blind eye as if it does not concern us.”
Citing the Holy Quran, he stated, “And do not spread corruption upon the earth after its reformation. This is a serious matter of collective responsibility.”
He stressed that officials, planners, businessmen, and citizens must understand that infrastructure and tourism development in sensitive areas like the Himalayas can have serious consequences. “We must strike a balance between protecting the environment and human intervention in the name of progress. The tragedy in Nepal should be viewed as a warning for our own region. We also live in the Himalayas. If we continue to disrupt the natural balance of our mountains, forests, wetlands, and water sources, the consequences could one day be irreversible.”
Mirwaiz emphasized that protecting the environment today is not just about conservation; it is about safeguarding lives, homes, and the future of our children.
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