[July Theme Report] Climate Changeby Yashaswi Hegde | 30-07-2023 17:37 |
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 As someone amidst the mesmerizing beauty of the Western Ghats of India, I find myself in a unique position to witness the impacts of climate change on this magnificent landscape. The winds of change have brought significant alterations to life here, and it is crucial to study these effects with credible data and observations. In this article, we will uncover the specific consequences of climate change on the Western Ghats and discuss how we can possibly resolve the issues. 1. Rising Temperature:Based on data sourced from meteorological stations across the region, it is evident that the Western Ghats have witnessed an average temperature increase of 0.07 degrees annually. These warming trends may seem subtle, but their environmental and human life ramifications are far-reaching. 2. Unpredictable Monsoons: The patterns of monsoon rainfall, which once graced the Western Ghats with predictability, have become increasingly erratic. Data analysis from various meteorological databases reveals a decline in overall monsoon precipitation, accompanied by an alarming rise in extreme weather events like intense downpours and prolonged draughts. Floods have been a regular guest in places like Kodagu and Uttara Kannada in Karnataka. The state of Kerala also had to face unexpected floods in the summer of 2018. 3. Vanishing Biodiversity: The Western Ghats are renowned for their rich biodiversity, but the advent of climate change has put many endemic species in peril. According to data from the Western Ghats Biodiversity Database, nearly 70% of endemic plant species and 51% of endemic vertebrates face a high risk of extinction due to disruptions in their natural habitats. Western Ghats which was once home to rare species like hornbills, lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri Thar, and many others are on the verge of losing them. According to a recent report, western Ghats is expected to lose 33% of its biodiversity by 2050. 4. Escalating Forest Fires: In recent times, the Western Ghats have faced an alarming increase in forest fires. Forest departments and environmentalists report that their frequency has risen significantly due to severe winter followed by scorching summers has dried the forests, making them susceptible. Shortage of staff and miscreants setting fires further aggravate the situation. From 2020 to 2021, forest fires rose by a massive 177.96% in India. 6. Fluctuating Agricultural Yield:Agricultural departments in Western Ghats states have recorded fluctuating agricultural yields recently. The changing climate, characterized by shifting monsoons, temperature extremes, and invasive pests, has made crop yields unpredictable, endangering the food security and economic well-being of rural communities, which make up the highest percentage of the population in the western ghats. 7. Human Health Hazards: Healthcare records highlight the increased incidence of heat-related illnesses during extreme heat waves in the Western Ghats. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and children, are particularly susceptible. Moreover, changing precipitation patterns have contributed to the spread of waterborne diseases like malaria and dengue. Recently there has also been an increase in viral conjunctivitis cases due to unprecedented heavy monsoons. If we don¡¯t take action right now, there is a massive possibility that we will regret it later. Through sustainable practices, conservation efforts, and informed policymaking, we can strive to protect the unique and delicate balance of this natural treasure, ensuring a harmonious coexistence with nature. Only by acknowledging the distinctive impacts of climate change and working together can we secure a sustainable future for not just the Western Ghats or India, but the whole world. The Western Ghats is not just a national treasure but a global one, providing vital ecological services, regulating climate patterns, and sheltering unique biodiversity. Western Ghats contain more than 30 percent of all plant, fish, bird, and mammal species found in India. Moreover, the Western Ghats are home to some 17 percent of the world¡¯s tigers (Panthera tigris) and about 30 percent of the world¡¯s Asian elephants. The preservation of this remarkable landscape transcends borders, calling for collective responsibility and concerted efforts from the international community. By safeguarding the Western Ghats, we contribute to the well-being of the planet, ensuring a greener and healthier Earth for generations to come. Let us unite in the endeavor to protect this natural wonder, for its significance extends far beyond the borders of India, resonating with the whole world's ecological harmony and sustainability. Sources: Temperature in boreholes offer clues to climate warming of Western Ghats (mongabay.com) Changing monsoonal rainfall patterns over the Western Ghats (mongabay.com) Climate change may affect wildlife in Western Ghats - The Hindu Forest Survey Report 2021: Forest fire counts up 2.7 times (downtoearth.org.in) |
