Melting Hopes: How Climate Change Is Drying Battagram
The scenic mountains of Battagram, once known for their consistent May snowfall, remained bare this year, triggering a deepening water crisis in the region. Experts and locals attribute this alarming shift to the growing impacts of climate change, which has disrupted natural weather cycles and endangered the livelihoods, health, and environment of thousands.
The lack of snowmelt—a key water source for streams, agriculture, and daily use—has resulted in dried-up water channels, stunted crop growth, and a worrying rise in health and societal challenges.
Climate change activist Saba Khan from Tikri Koza Banda said, “The disappearance of May snowfall is not just a weather anomaly; it’s a warning. Battagram is facing a climate emergency. The glaciers and snowlines are receding every year, and that’s directly impacting our water availability and food security. There needs to be immediate action in terms of tree plantation, water conservation, and shifting to climate-resilient practices.”
Dr. Hayat Sherazi, Medical Officer at District Headquarters Hospital Battagram, highlighted the growing health challenges. “We are observing a rise in waterborne diseases due to contamination of the limited water supply,” he explained. “Children and elderly patients are especially vulnerable. Dehydration cases have surged, and the lack of clean water for hygiene is increasing skin infections and gastrointestinal illnesses.”
Among the worst affected is Sajjad Khan, a farmer from Shamlai. “I have lost over half of my wheat and vegetable crops this season,” he shared with frustration. “We rely on mountain streams fed by snowmelt. Without snow, there’s no water, and without water, we can’t farm. It’s devastating for people like us who depend entirely on agriculture.”
Environmental expert Sadam Khan from Thakot emphasized the broader environmental consequences. “Reduced snowfall disrupts the entire ecosystem,” he said. “It affects wildlife migration, plant growth, and the delicate balance of forest biodiversity. The forest area is also drying up, making it more prone to wildfires. The water tables are shrinking, which could have long-term consequences for the region.”
Educationist Shahab Uddin from Ajmera noted the importance of public education on climate change. “People need to understand the science behind these changes. Climate change is not a distant issue—it is happening right here, in our valleys. I advise communities to save water, plant more trees, and educate children about sustainable living. Awareness is the first step to action.”
Social activist Munir Usmani highlighted the societal effects of the crisis. “Water scarcity is straining relationships in communities,” he observed. “Conflicts over shared water sources are rising. Women and children are bearing the brunt, walking miles for water. Social stress, poverty, and even school attendance are being affected, as children are pulled out to help with household survival.”
With the region’s natural patterns shifting, voices from all sectors—health, agriculture, environment, education, and civil society—are calling for urgent steps to address the crisis. The people of Battagram are not only seeking government intervention but also urging local communities to adapt and act to protect their future.
The views and opinions expressed in this article/paper are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the editorial position of The Spine Times.
Sheraz Ahmad Sherazi
The writer is a journalist based in Islamabad.
