Western Ghats: Deforestation continues unchecked, temperatures rising -- Finds IISc study

Mangaluru: Climate irregularities, such as changing patterns in rain, cold, and summer, are becoming hot topics of discussion. In addition to these, human intervention and economic development have led to temperature variations even in the ecologically sensitive Western Ghats.

Scientists from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have conducted a study on changes in forest cover and temperature fluctuations in the Western Ghats. The findings have been published in the international science journal Springer. The research team, led by Prof. T.V. Ramachandra, Bharat, and S. Vinay, has highlighted these issues.

Deforestation is the Culprit

Using remote sensing data from 2005 to 2019, the study analyzed land characteristics (fragmentation analysis). It found that only 11,335 sq. km (5.91%) of the state’s forest area remains untouched. The study shows that from 1985 to 2019, Karnataka lost 63.7% of its untouched virgin forest cover.

The study also reveals a sharp decline in intact forest cover in districts along the Western Ghats. Between 2005 and 2019, forest loss was significant: Chikkamagaluru lost 54%, Dakshina Kannada 57.6%, Udupi 44%, Uttara Kannada 41%, and Shivamogga 35%.

Temperature Rise:

Thermal band remote sensing data analysis indicates a significant temperature rise in the area between 2005 and 2019. The primary reason for this is the reduction in greenery. In non-forest areas, construction activities have contributed to a noticeable increase in atmospheric temperature. Experts attribute the rise to industrial expansion and unchecked urbanization.

According to the study, in 2005, around 8,21,600 hectares of land in Karnataka experienced maximum temperatures below 30°C. By 2019, this area had shrunk to 4,85,566 hectares. The area with temperatures between 30°C and 35°C increased from 2,898 sq. km in 2005 to 3,666 sq. km in 2019.

Impact on Flora and Fauna:

Another alarming discovery is the decline in sensitive species over the last decade. Species on the brink of extinction have also reduced in number, indicating ecosystem degradation.

In 2005, there were 3,615 sensitive plant species in danger of extinction; by 2019, this number dropped to 3,374. Similarly, animal species numbers fell from 4,243 in 2005 to 3,923 in 2019.

 “Imbalance in the ecosystem is the reason for such temperature anomalies. Proper land usage and reforestation with native species on degraded land can help control rising temperatures.” — Dr. T.V. Ramachandra, Scientist, Bengaluru

 

-Translated version of Kannada article by Venu Vinod K S