Recent research from the Central University of Kerala marks a notable increase in monsoon rainfall in the Western Ghats over the last 800 years. This study, led by Dr. K. Sandeep and his team, reconstructs monsoon patterns over 1,600 years, revealing climatic changes. The findings, published in Quaternary International, tell the need for proactive measures to address the challenges posed by an intensifying monsoon cycle.
Historical Climate Patterns
The study examined lake sediments from Cheppandikere Lake in Karnataka. This multidisciplinary approach allowed researchers to track monsoon intensity over centuries. The data shows a long-term increase in rainfall, suggesting that current weather patterns may be part of a larger climatic trend.
Impact of Increased Rainfall
The rise in monsoon intensity has led to more frequent and extreme rainfall events. Dr. Sandeep cited the severe landslides and floods in Wayanad and Kodagu during 2018 and 2019 as examples. These events may not be isolated incidents but rather manifestations of a broader climatic shift.
Need for Disaster Preparedness
The findings stress the importance of better disaster preparedness in the Western Ghats. As rainfall patterns change, communities must adapt to mitigate risks. Effective planning and response strategies are crucial to protect lives and property in vulnerable areas.
Sustainable Land-Use Planning
Sustainable land-use practices are essential to cope with the environmental challenges posed by increased monsoon intensity. Conservation efforts must be prioritised to maintain the ecological balance in the Western Ghats. This includes protecting natural habitats and managing resources responsibly.
Long-Term Environmental Policies
Experts advocate for long-term environmental policies to address the risks associated with an intensifying monsoon. These policies should focus on climate resilience, disaster risk reduction, and community engagement. A proactive approach can help mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on local populations.
Research Collaboration
The study reflects a collaborative effort among researchers at the Central University of Kerala. It marks the importance of interdisciplinary research in understanding complex climate systems. Such collaborations can lead to innovative solutions for pressing environmental issues.
Future Research Directions
Further research is needed to explore the implications of changing monsoon patterns. About the long-term effects on agriculture, water resources, and biodiversity is crucial. Continued investigation will provide deeper vital information about climate variability and its impacts on the Western Ghats.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of climate change on monsoon patterns in India.
- Estimate the relationship between monsoon intensity and extreme weather events in the Western Ghats.
- Point out the measures required for sustainable land-use planning in ecologically sensitive regions.
- What are the implications of increased monsoon rainfall on agricultural practices in India? Discuss.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the impact of climate change on monsoon patterns in India.
- Climate change has led to altered monsoon patterns, including delayed onset and increased variability.
- Rising temperatures contribute to increased evaporation, intensifying rainfall during monsoon seasons.
- Changes in ocean temperatures affect monsoon dynamics, influencing precipitation distribution across regions.
- Extreme weather events, such as floods and droughts, are becoming more frequent due to climate-induced shifts.
- Long-term studies indicate a trend of increasing monsoon intensity, impacting agriculture and water resources.
2. Estimate the relationship between monsoon intensity and extreme weather events in the Western Ghats.
- Increased monsoon intensity correlates with a rise in extreme weather events like heavy rainfall, landslides, and floods.
- Historical data shows that extreme events in recent years align with the overall trend of intensified monsoon patterns.
- Areas like Wayanad and Kodagu have experienced damage from extreme weather, denoting vulnerability.
- Research indicates that these events are not isolated but part of a broader climatic shift affecting the region.
- About this relationship is crucial for developing disaster preparedness and response strategies.
3. Point out the measures required for sustainable land-use planning in ecologically sensitive regions.
- Implement conservation practices to protect natural habitats and biodiversity in sensitive ecosystems.
- Promote sustainable agricultural practices that minimize environmental impact and enhance soil health.
- Develop land-use policies that prioritize ecological balance and community engagement in decision-making.
- Incorporate disaster risk reduction strategies into land-use planning to prepare for extreme weather events.
- Encourage reforestation and afforestation initiatives to improve resilience against climate change impacts.
4. What are the implications of increased monsoon rainfall on agricultural practices in India? Discuss.
- Increased rainfall can lead to waterlogging, affecting crop yields and soil health negatively.
- Farmers may face challenges in planting and harvesting due to unpredictable rainfall patterns.
- Intensified rainfall can enhance the risk of pest and disease outbreaks, impacting crop productivity.
- Conversely, adequate rainfall can boost irrigation and crop growth if managed properly.
- Adaptation strategies, including crop diversification and improved water management, are essential for resilience.
