Ecological Challenges in Himalayas

Ecological Challenges in Himalayas

Author:- Aakanksha Yadav, B.B.A LL.B(hons), 4th year Baba Saheb BhimRao Ambedkar University, Lucknow 

In the heart of Asia, the Himalayan mountain range, often referred to as the “Roof of the World”, has captivated human imagination for centuries with its breathtaking beauty and allure. The Himalayas being regarded as a sacred and spiritual center by numerous cultures and religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, are also recognized as one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots and contributes to global ecological balance. Its diverse ecosystems, ranging from lush forests to alpine meadows, harbor a rich variety of plant and animal species, some of which are unique to the region. The importance of  Himalayan glaciers and snowfields cannot be sidelined as they serve as the source for major rivers and play a crucial role in regulating the climate of the surrounding regions and beyond. They influence the monsoon patterns that bring vital rainfall. 

However, behind the serene facade lies a tale of escalating environmental challenges. In recent times, the Himalayas have borne witness to a series of unprecedented and alarming challenges that threaten their very existence. From the impacts of climate change leading to glacial melt and altered weather patterns, to rampant urbanization unsustainable development practices, the Himalayas are facing a wave of devastation that demands immediate attention.

The Himalayas are highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Rising temperatures have led to the rapid melting of glaciers, affecting water availability for rivers downstream.  One of the biggest factors causing glaciers to melt is the emission of black carbon aerosols into the atmosphere. Black carbon absorbs more light and emits infra-red radiation that increases the temperature, therefore, an increase in black carbon in the Himalayas contributes to the faster melting of glaciers. Also with rise in  temperatures, new habitats become available for invasive species that can outcompete native the flora and fauna of the Himalayan region. As we all know that Himalayas are young, fold mountains which means they are still rising and are prone to tectonic activities. This makes the region prone  to natural disasters such as landslides, avalanches, and earthquakes. Climate change can exacerbate the frequency and severity of these events, leading to loss of lives, property damage, and disruptions to infrastructure. Plus upscale Deforestation, construction activities, and improper land use practices are  increasing soil erosion and the risk of landslides in the Himalayas areas causing a severe threat to people residing in these regions. 

Measures taken to protect the Himalayan ecosystem can be firstly, if the people of the more aware of the geological vulnerability and ecological fragility of their mountain home, they would surely force more compliance of laws and regulations to protect it. If students are taught about their environment, they will feel more connected to the land and be more aware of its pulse. Secondly, the municipalities in the Himalayan states need to play a more proactive role while granting approval to buildings need to be updated ; building bye laws to overcome the emerging challenges of climate change. Thirdly, Himalayan countries need to build an international network that will monitor risks such as those from glacial lakes, and give early warning of hazards — similar to the tsunami warning systems installed around the Indian Ocean over the past decade. The countries should share and disseminate knowledge about the mountains and preservation of the ecology there. Other important steps can be taken such as having early warning and better weather forecast systems in order to forecast the disaster and alert the local population and tourists, upgrading existing dams to improve their structural stability and prioritizing regular monitoring after flooding events and initiating a dialogue on adverse impacts of commercial tourism and promoting ecotourism etc.