Ecologically sensitive regions in India are facing severe threats and it is critical that immediate remediation measures are taken to protect them. This has been highlighted by the recent floods in Kerala which caused large-scale destruction. Several other regions in India are equally sensitive and under threat, necessitating urgent conservation actions.
The Western Ghats: A Biodiversity Treasure Trove Under Threat
The Western Ghats, considered a biodiversity treasure trove by the Madhav Gadgil report, has been designated as an ecologically sensitive area with different degrees of sensitivity. The region is battling multiple threats including pollution, deforestation, and mining activities that have converted original natural vegetation into cultivated lands, coffee and tea plantations. Moreover, the establishment of hydroelectric reservoirs poses a significant environmental concern.
However, these threats have prompted the need for conservation efforts. They require a balance between development and protection. The Gadgil committee report provides an important guideline for the sustainable development of the Ghats as a whole.
Himalayas: An Unstable and Ecologically Fragile Mountain Region
Recognised as one of the most unstable and fragile mountain regions globally, the Himalayas are witnessing one of the highest rates of warming, impacting habitats and species’ lifecycles. Glaciers are shrinking due to global warming, and the frequency of snow avalanches in the western Indian Himalayas threatens the local population. Additionally, overexploitation of natural resources, road constructions, and hydroelectric dams pose considerable ecological risks.
To counteract these, anthropogenic activities such as exploitation of natural resources and construction of massive dams should be controlled.
Ganga: Addressing the Clean-up Challenge
Covering 26% of the country’s land area, the Ganga basin plays a crucial role in supporting the subsistence and commerce of more than 800 million people. However, it is under threat from water pollution and solid waste disposal, and excessive extraction of water by dams, barrages, and irrigation projects.
Effective conservation measures include tackling water pollution and unsafe solid waste disposal urgently and involving all stakeholders, including the local communities living along the river basins.
The Sunderbans: Protecting a Critically Endangered Ecosystem
The Sunderbans, the world’s largest coastal mangrove forest, is uniquely vulnerable to climate change impacts. Threats range from sea-level rise, which is highest along the eastern coast, and faster land sinking rates to increasing agricultural and industrial activities. These challenges lead to coastal erosion, increase in siltation and salinity, posing grave risks for indigenous flora and fauna.
Controlling agriculture and industrial activities and engaging all stakeholders, including local communities, can combat these threats effectively.
The Andamans: Balancing Development and Conservation
The Andaman islands, a cluster of 572 islands in the Bay of Bengal, are known for its rich mangrove forests and coral reefs. Home to indigenous tribes like the Onge and Jarawa, the islands are under potential threats from development plans such as eco-tourism projects and railway construction.
Key conservation measures should focus on balancing tourism development with the preservation of the islands’ fragile ecology, unique biodiversity, and cultural heritage. While development initiatives are important, they should not come at the cost of the environment.
