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.