KARACHI:
My hometown, nestled in the last nook of Gilgit, has been a central point for snowfall from mid-November to mid-March. I remember bone-chilling winters with snow piling up to my knees turning roads into ski runs and mountains donning snow blankets. For decades, residents of Gilgit have experienced this weather pattern.
However, the normal paradigm has abruptly shifted in recent years. The once snow-covered mountains, resembling a white bedsheet have now transformed into a brown carpet. People’s livelihoods heavily depend on these weather patterns. Snowfall in the mountains supports grass growth and water storage for summer. Shepherds leave their cattle in these elevated areas for survival, which reduces their expenses.
The change in weather patterns has left residents worried disrupting not only their livelihoods but also posing an alarming threat of floods and heavy rains in summer. Glaciers are undergoing rapid melting posing a significant threat to the lands and homes in the surrounding river areas. Unfortunately, the government has yet to take any proactive steps to tackle these pressing issues. This is a real and escalating climate change concern. The people urge the government to promptly address the issue and introduce safety measures before a significant mishap occurs.
Shayan Ashraf
Gilgit, Ghizer
Published in The Express Tribune, December 2nd, 2023.
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