Unusual rise in temperature force Kashmiri Gujjars to undertake seasonal migrations

JAMMU MA - Global warming and a continuous dry spell has forced Jammu and Kashmir’s Gujjar and Bakerwal tribes to start their bi-annual seasonal tribal migrations towards upper reaches of Shivalik, Perpanchal and Trikuta hills of Himalayas a month ahead of their routine schedule.

A hand out issued by the Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation, an organistion for Gujjars, said in normal circumstances the nomadic Gujjars and Bakerwals who reside in the plain during summer, start their seasonal migration towards Himalayas around or after the third week of April every year. But this year, they have been compelled to prepone their journey by a month.

According to Dr. Javaid Rahi, the secretary of the foundation, this preponement will badly affect their tribal economy and social set-up.

“They would have to not only face the brunt of the heat during the migration process, but also fight off the acute shortage of fodder in the upper areas,” he added.

Dr. Rahi further said the main tribal migration routes include Jamiya Gali, Gora Batta, Nanansar, Ropadi Dharhal Pass, and these were badly damaged by the heavy snowfall last winter.

A metrological department official said, “A western disturbance is affecting Jammu and Kashmir at present and it’s immediate consequence is an increase in temperature. We are not forecasting any rain or other relief as of now.”By Tahir Nadeem Khan (ANI)