NIH Studies Himalayan Glaciers and Climate Change
The National Institute of Hydrology (NIH) in Roorkee is investigating several Himalayan glaciers, including Gangotri and Milam. This research aims to understand how these glaciers are changing and what it means for water resources.
According to a recent report submitted to the National Green Tribunal, the NIH has been examining the effects of climate change on snow and glaciers in the region. They found that higher greenhouse gas emissions are increasing rainfall events and accelerating glacier retreat, which will impact future water availability. The report highlighted a pressing need for climate action to manage water resources better.
Research from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has shown that rising temperatures significantly contribute to glacier retreats in the Indian Himalayan basins. For instance, a study titled Snow and Glacier Changes and Their Impacts on Melt Runoff in the Himalayan Basin employed the Spatial Process in Hydrology (SPHY) model. It aimed to separate different runoff components, revealing a notable shift in the contributions of glacier melt versus snowmelt.
In the Baspa basin, where around 20% of the area is glacial cover, researchers found that glacier melt contributions have decreased, while snowmelt contributions have increased. This change reflects broader patterns of climate change impacting water resources in these ice-capped mountains.
Ludhiana’s Vegetable Waste Management Efforts
In Ludhiana, the Punjab Mandi Board is working hard to manage vegetable waste effectively, following guidelines from the National Green Tribunal. They’ve crafted a plan to align with the Solid Waste Management Rules to improve waste disposal from the local vegetable market.
Recent reports indicate significant ongoing efforts. For example, the board is collaborating with the Municipal Corporation of Ludhiana to set up a waste compactor at the new vegetable market. Completion of this installation is expected soon. By agreeing to provide segregated waste to this facility, the municipal corporation will help ensure proper disposal, aligning with waste management regulations.
To further contribute to cleanliness, contractors are responsible for garbage collection and disposal. They gather waste each evening and transport it away at night to minimize disruption. The estimated volume of waste generated at the market is about 10,183 cubic meters, translating to around 2,050 trolleys of waste.
Additionally, the Municipal Corporation has been active in enforcing a ban on plastic bags, imposing fines on offenders. Notably, the Punjab Mandi Board has initiated a pilot project to produce bricks from vegetable waste. If successful, this initiative could be expanded across Ludhiana.
By looking at both the environmental challenges posed by climate change and the local government’s proactive measures to handle waste, we can see interconnected efforts for sustainability. These initiatives play a vital role in shaping a healthier future for the region.
Check out this related article: Peruvian Farmer Takes on German Energy Giant in Groundbreaking Climate Challenge
Source linkClimate Change,Waste Management,Global Warming,Mandi,Ludhiana (D),glacier
