Impact of Climate Change in Madhya Pradesh: Shrinking Forests and Contaminated Rivers, Experts Warn

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Madhya Pradesh is facing serious environmental challenges. Pollution levels in the air, soil, and water keep rising, and our forests are shrinking. Experts warn this situation could get worse.

The latest India State of Forest Report (2023) shows that Madhya Pradesh lost 371 square kilometers of forest cover between 2021 and 2023. In 2021, the Very Dense Forest area was 6,468 square kilometers, but it has now dropped to 5,506 square kilometers.

Sudesh Waghmare, a former deputy director at Van Vihar National Park, Bhopal, notes that the state was once famous for its lush forests. These forests acted as a natural barrier against pollution. Waghmare indicates that with shrinking forests, the quality of our environment is declining rapidly. “The effects of climate change are clear. Unseasonal rains during summer signal a significant shift in the state’s climate,” he explains.

Air quality is getting worse, especially in major cities, primarily due to pollution from vehicles and industries. “We all hear about Air Quality Index (AQI) now, not just in metro cities but right here in Madhya Pradesh,” he adds. Alarmingly, no river in the state currently has drinkable water.

Environmental scientist Subhash Pande highlights the failure of authorities to curb illegal logging and uncontrolled sand mining. “In the 1990s, 60% of Bhopal was green. Now it’s down to barely 4%. This has led to a significant rise in temperatures, by about 7-8 degrees,” he says. He also points out that stubble burning is worsening air quality, while excessive sand mining threatens to turn the Narmada River into just a seasonal stream.

Recent surveys show growing public concern over environmental issues in Madhya Pradesh. Many residents are taking to social media to express their worries about pollution and its effects on their health. A recent poll revealed that 70% of respondents believe the government is not doing enough to tackle these problems.

Overall, the situation in Madhya Pradesh calls for urgent action. The loss of forests, deteriorating air quality, and unsafe water impact everyone. It’s crucial for everyone—individuals, communities, and governments—to work together for a healthier environment.

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