Increased Rainfall in Western Ghats Over 800 Years

PWOnlyIAS

April 01, 2025

Increased Rainfall in Western Ghats Over 800 Years

A study by researchers at the Central University of Kerala (CUK) has found a significant increase in monsoon rainfall in the Western Ghats over the past 800 years.

Key Findings of the Study

  • The researchers analyzed lake sediments from Cheppandikere Lake in Karnataka to reconstruct Indian monsoon patterns over 1,600 years.
  • Findings suggest that extreme weather events like landslides and floods in Wayanad and Kodagu (2018-2019) may be part of a long-term climatic trend rather than isolated incidents.
  • The study emphasizes the need for proactive disaster preparedness, sustainable land-use planning, and conservation measures.

About Western Ghats

  • Location and  Extent: Stretching 1,600 km along India’s western coast, spanning Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
  • Geological Formation: Formed around 150 million years ago due to plate tectonics during the breakup of Gondwana.
  • Rock Types: Consist of basalt in the north (Deccan Traps), and granite and gneiss in the south.

Biodiversity and  Environmental Significance

  • UNESCO Heritage Site: Recognized as one of the world’s major biodiversity hotspots.
  • Biodiversity Hotspot: Home to endemic species like the Lion-tailed Macaque, Malabar Giant Squirrel, and King Cobra.
    • Rich vegetation, including evergreen and shola forests.
  • Water Catchment Area: Major rivers like Godavari, Krishna, Kaveri, and Tungabhadra originate here, supplying water to millions.
  • Climate Regulation: Acts as a barrier to monsoon winds, influencing rainfall distribution.
    • Plays a crucial role in carbon sequestration, reducing climate change impact.

Cultural and Historical Significance

  • Indigenous Communities: Home to several tribal groups preserving traditional ecological knowledge.
  • Sacred Sites:
    • Sabarimala (Hindu pilgrimage site in Kerala).
    • Shravanabelagola (Jain heritage site in Karnataka).
  • Traditional Art and Crafts: Includes bamboo crafts, textiles, and herbal medicine practices.

Conservation Efforts

  • Protected Areas: Several national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves were established.
    • For example Silent Valley National Park (Kerala) preserves rare species.
  • Eco-Tourism Initiatives: Sustainable tourism is promoted to balance conservation and economic benefits.
  • Government and NGO Involvement: Focus on afforestation, habitat restoration, and community-based conservation.

Challenges and  Future Prospects

  • Climate Change Adaptation: Rising monsoon intensity may increase landslides and floods.
    • Need for green corridors and disaster preparedness plans.
  • Sustainable Development: Encouraging eco-friendly agriculture and responsible tourism.
  • Community Participation: Involving local communities in conservation and sustainable land-use practices.

The study underscores the importance of long-term environmental policies to mitigate risks from intensifying monsoons and safeguard the ecological and cultural wealth of the Western Ghats.

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UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

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