Grand Mufti J&K cautions on the Himalayan Ecological Crisis

STC NEWS DESK
SRINAGAR, AUGUST 30 (STC): Jammu and Kashmir’s ecology, water systems and livelihoods are deeply interconnected with the health of these mountains, said Nasir-ul-Islam Farooqi, Grand Mufti, Jammu & Kashmir. He said the calamity unfolding in Nepal must not be viewed merely as an isolated natural disaster. It should compel governments and society to reflect upon the ecological limits of the Himalayan region.
He further stated that Kashmir cannot remain indifferent to what happens in the Himalayas.
Stating that the Himalayas are a delicate living system, the Grand Mufti said, “Unscientific construction, deforestation, climate change, excessive exploitation of natural resources and disregard for carrying capacity can transform ecological stress into human catastrophe.”
He has urged the Government of India and the Government of Jammu & Kashmir to treat this as a serious warning and initiate a comprehensive Himalayan Ecological Policy, based on scientific assessment, carrying-capacity studies, responsible development and protection of forests, rivers and mountain habitats.
“Nature does not negotiate indefinitely. When warnings are ignored, nature answers with consequences,” he said.
(Straight Talk Communications)