The region of the Hindu Kush Himalaya, including Mount Everest, faces irreversible changes due to global warming. Increased temperatures pose a severe threat to the environment, with projections suggesting that up to two-thirds of all glaciers could disappear within 70 years. Adding to these concerns, extreme weather events are also predicted to become more frequent.
The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) is urgently calling for global action in line with the Paris Agreement. This includes measures to cut emissions and shift towards renewable sources of energy. Additionally, the SaveOurSnow campaign is seeking public support to safeguard the Himalayas.
The ICIMOD, an intergovernmental knowledge and learning centre, has a mission to develop and share research, information, and innovations. The goal is to empower the people living in the HKH region’s eight member countries – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan. With 240 million lives and essential water resources under threat, protecting the Himalayas has never been more critical.
International Everest Day and the First Ascent
May 29 marks International Everest Day, a tribute to Edmund Hillary from New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa from Nepal’s remarkable achievement. They were the first people to scale the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest, on May 29, 1953, despite severe weather conditions and challenging terrains.
A New Eel Species in Odisha’s Palur Canal
Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have discovered a new species of eel, Pisodonophis kalinga, in the Palur canal situated in Odisha’s Ganjam district. Belonging to the Ophichthidae family and Anguilliformes order, this eel has a snake-like appearance and can range in length from 560 millimetres to 7 metres.
The discovery was made in the Chilika lagoon, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, and the adjoining Palur canal. Pisodonophis kalinga is prevalent in the region during the monsoon season from September to November. DNA analysis determined its distinction from the previously identified species Pisodonophis boro (rice-paddy eel).
Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL)
The Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) is a significant infrastructure project currently underway. It aims to create India’s longest sea bridge – a 21.8 km six-lane expressway grade road bridge. Once completed, MTHL will significantly reduce traffic congestion and diminish travel time between Sewri and Chirle to just 15 to 20 minutes.
In addition to being efficient, MTHL also introduces an open road tolling system, a first for India. This method collects tolls without requiring vehicles to stop or slow down, streamlining traffic flow. It uses electronic sensors and cameras for smooth operation. The MTHL employs the Orthotropic steel deck technology combining strength and flexibility, enhancing the bridge’s durability while keeping the structure lightweight.
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Decline in India
India witnessed a decline in foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows for the fiscal year 2022-23. Several global factors are leading to this downturn, including hardening interest rates and a deteriorating geopolitical situation. Despite strong commitment to liberal FDI policies, these issues have likely affected investor confidence, resulting in reduced investment.
This decline has been particularly notable in five crucial sectors: computer hardware and software, construction, education, automobiles, and metallurgical industries. Policymakers and stakeholders need to conduct a thorough analysis to understand the specific reasons behind this drop. Such significant downturns in FDI inflows impacts India’s economic growth, employment opportunities, and technological advancements.