What is the news editorial?

 

• • Himachal Pradesh, known for its cool and inviting weather that provides relief from the harsh Indian summers, is facing an alarming shift in its climatic patterns.

• • This year, the state’s typically temperate climate has been disrupted as temperatures soar and precipitation levels drop dramatically.

• • This editorial explores the extent of this temperature rise, its implications, and the underlying reasons behind this significant climatic change.

 

Current Climatic Conditions in Himachal Pradesh

 

• • Weather records indicate that Himachal Pradesh has been experiencing temperatures three to four degrees higher than the average. The heat has impacted the state’s ability to attract and entertain tourists who usually seek the region for its serene and cool environment. The situation is compounded by a marked decrease in rainfall, making this October the third driest since the India Meteorological Department (IMD) began tracking weather data.

 

Temperature Anomalies

 

• • The commencement of the winter season in Himachal Pradesh has been marked by unexpected warmth. Historically, November sees sub-zero temperatures in the state’s valleys; however, this year, the maximum temperatures have fluctuated between 24 to 29 degrees Celsius, which is four degrees higher than usual. The minimum temperature has also been recorded at 7 to 11 degrees Celsius, an increase of 1-2 degrees from the norm.

 

IMD data highlights record-breaking temperatures across various districts:

 

• • Solan: Reached a maximum of 39°C
  • Kangra: Recorded 27.6°C
  • Bhuntar: Hit 30.5°C
  • Una: Experienced similarly high temperatures
  • Kalpa (higher altitude): Recorded 23.6°C, the highest since 1984

 

Precipitation Deficit

 

• • Adding to the problem, this October witnessed an unprecedented rainfall deficit of 97%. Only 0.7 mm of rain was recorded, a stark contrast to the usual 25 mm expected during this period. The last time October had such minimal rainfall was in 2003 (0.3 mm) and 1964 (0.1 mm). Notably, six districts—Chamba, Hamirpur, Solan, Sirmaur, and Kullu—experienced a completely dry October.

 

Impact on Agriculture and Horticulture

 

• • The combination of high temperatures and low rainfall has significantly affected Himachal Pradesh’s agricultural and horticultural sectors. The region’s famous apple and fruit harvests began 15 to 20 days earlier than usual due to accelerated ripening driven by increased temperatures. These changes not only reduce the quality and quantity of produce but also impact farmers’ livelihoods and the broader economy dependent on these sectors.

 

Reasons Behind the Rising Temperatures

 

The persistent rise in temperature and erratic precipitation patterns can be attributed to a variety of interrelated factors:

 

1. Climate Change

• • Global climate change plays a significant role in altering weather patterns. The rise in greenhouse gas emissions has contributed to the warming of the Earth’s surface, which in turn affects temperature and precipitation cycles. Himachal Pradesh, like many other regions, is experiencing the repercussions of these larger climate dynamics.

 

2. Weakened Western Disturbances

• • Western Disturbances, which bring cold air and precipitation to the region, have been weaker and less frequent in recent years. This has resulted in a delay in the onset of winter and higher-than-normal temperatures.

 

3. Deforestation and Land Use Changes

• • Deforestation and unsustainable land use contribute to the local rise in temperatures. The reduction in forest cover not only affects local ecosystems but also exacerbates the heat by decreasing natural cooling provided by trees. The shift towards construction and urban expansion also results in increased heat retention.

 

4. Global Weather Phenomena

• • Events such as El Niño and La Niña impact weather systems worldwide. While these phenomena are part of natural climate variability, they have become more erratic due to global warming. These changes influence monsoon patterns and seasonal temperatures in India, including Himachal Pradesh.

 

5. Reduced Snow Cover

• • The Himalayan region, which heavily influences Himachal Pradesh’s climate, has seen a reduction in snow cover over the years. This decline affects the state’s temperature regulation, leading to warmer conditions. Snow acts as a reflective surface that helps maintain lower temperatures; diminished snowpack results in less reflection and higher heat absorption.

 

Conclusion

 

• • Himachal Pradesh’s current climatic conditions are a sobering reminder of the impacts of global climate change and regional environmental issues. The combination of increased temperatures and decreased rainfall is disrupting not only the state’s natural climate balance but also its economy and lifestyle. Addressing these challenges requires both immediate adaptive measures and long-term strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change and preserve the state’s unique environment.

 

Call to Action

 

• • It is crucial for policymakers, environmentalists, and the public to collaborate on sustainable practices, reforestation projects, and climate adaptation strategies to combat the ongoing crisis. The preservation of Himachal Pradesh’s climate is not just essential for its residents but for the millions who rely on its natural beauty and resources.

 

 

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Mains Questions:

 

 

 

Model Answer:

 

• • Himachal Pradesh, traditionally known for its cool climate, has recently experienced a significant temperature increase, with records showing temperatures 3-4 degrees higher than average. The key reasons behind this temperature rise include global climate change, which has led to increased greenhouse gas emissions and warming of the Earth’s surface. Additionally, Western Disturbances, which bring cold air and precipitation to the region, have been weaker and less frequent in recent years. This has resulted in a delay in the onset of winter and higher-than-normal temperatures. Deforestation and land use changes have further exacerbated local temperatures by reducing natural cooling effects provided by forest cover.
• • The implications for agriculture and horticulture are substantial. The state’s famous apple and fruit harvests have been affected, with fruit ripening 15 to 20 days earlier than usual due to higher temperatures. This has resulted in lower produce quality and reduced yields, impacting farmers’ incomes and the broader economy. The rainfall deficit, with October 2023 witnessing only 0.7 mm of rain against a typical 25 mm, has further worsened these effects, leading to water scarcity and soil moisture deficits. Addressing these challenges requires both adaptive strategies and concerted efforts towards climate resilience.

 

 

Model Answer:

 

• • Cyclonic circulations in the Bay of Bengal have a significant impact on the weather patterns of Himachal Pradesh. These systems often block or weaken the cold northerly winds that usually bring down temperatures in the northern regions of India. When the flow of these cold winds is disrupted, warmer air masses from the southern and southeastern parts of the country can move northward and remain over Himachal Pradesh for extended periods. This leads to sustained higher temperatures and contributes to the unusual warmth that has been observed.
• • For instance, during the winter onset, cyclonic circulations can delay the cooling process by preventing the arrival of cold air masses. As a result, regions such as Himachal Pradesh experience prolonged warm spells. This warming effect is compounded by other climate-related factors, such as deforestation, which reduces natural cooling, and global warming, which intensifies existing weather phenomena.
• • The impact of these altered weather patterns is evident in the state’s agricultural sector. Crops and fruit trees that rely on specific temperature conditions for proper growth and ripening are particularly affected, leading to premature harvesting and quality issues. Such disruptions pose challenges to local economies and necessitate strategies to mitigate and adapt to the shifting climate patterns in the region.

 

Remember: These are just sample answers. It’s important to further research and refine your responses based on your own understanding and perspective. Read entire UPSC Current Affairs.