Is extreme winter linked to low forest cover?...by Dr Amandeep Aggarwal
Effect of decreasing forest cover on rain, groundwater, environment, weather extremes
Chandigarh: The whole region continues to reel under a bone-chilling spell, every day witnessing yet another historic low for maximum temperature. Punjab has experienced almost zero sunshine hours in the past 17 days intensifying the severity of the already harsh winter conditions.
Experts cite low forest cover as one of the major causes behind weather extremes. It is said that loss of forest cover can make the ecosystem, human habitation, and various natural resources more vulnerable to changing climatic conditions in the form of extreme weather events such as floods and other related natural disasters.
How much forest cover is recommended?
The Government of India enacted a National Forest Policy (1988) in order to prevent deforestation. The policy has recommended 33% forest cover for the plains and 67% for the hills.
Punjab Forest Department website mentions “The legally notified area under Forests in Punjab is 3058 sq. km which is about 6.1% of the total geographical area. About half of the forest area is notified as Reserved/Protected Forest, while the balance is being managed under the Punjab Land Preservation Act, 1900”.
Low forest cover in Punjab can have several significant effects on various aspects of the environment and climate. Here are some potential impacts:
1. Rainfall and Climate:
- Reduced forest cover can contribute to changes in local climate patterns. Forests play a crucial role in maintaining a balance of moisture in the atmosphere through a process known as transpiration. A decrease in forest cover may lead to altered rainfall patterns and potentially contribute to changes in the monsoon.
2. Groundwater Levels:
- Forests act as natural buffers, helping to regulate water flow and prevent soil erosion. The roots of trees and vegetation play a vital role in maintaining soil structure, which, in turn, influences groundwater recharge.
A decrease in forest cover may result in increased surface runoff, leading to reduced groundwater recharge and potentially impacting water availability in the region.
3. Biodiversity Loss:
- Low forest cover can lead to a loss of biodiversity. Forest ecosystems provide habitats for various plant and animal species. As forests shrink, many species may lose their natural habitats, leading to a decline in biodiversity. This can disrupt ecological balance and affect the overall health of the ecosystem.
4. Temperature Extremes:
- Forests have a cooling effect on the environment through the process of evapotranspiration. A decrease in forest cover can contribute to higher temperatures, especially during the summer months. This may result in more intense and prolonged heatwaves, impacting both human health and agricultural productivity.
5. Air Quality:
- Forests act as natural filters for air pollutants by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. A reduction in forest cover can lead to increased air pollution levels, as there are fewer trees to absorb pollutants and release oxygen. This can have adverse effects on respiratory health and overall air quality.
6. Soil Erosion:
- Forests play a crucial role in preventing soil erosion. The root systems of trees help bind soil particles together, reducing the risk of erosion. With low forest cover, there is an increased likelihood of soil erosion, negatively impacting agricultural productivity and leading to sedimentation of water bodies.
7. Impact on Agriculture:
- Changes in climate, groundwater levels, and soil quality can directly affect agriculture. Farmers may face challenges such as altered growing seasons, water scarcity, and decreased soil fertility, ultimately impacting crop yields and agricultural livelihoods.
8. Extreme Weather Events:
- Deforestation and reduced forest cover can contribute to an increased vulnerability to extreme weather events such as floods and landslides. Forests act as natural barriers and absorbers, reducing the impact of such events.
Addressing these issues requires comprehensive conservation and reforestation efforts to restore and maintain a healthy forest cover, promoting environmental sustainability and resilience.
January 15, 2024
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Dr Amandeep Aggarwal, Family Physician, MBBS (Pb.), Cardiac Emergencies Course (Apollo Hospital)
dr_amanaggarwal@yahoo.co.in
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