Himalayas "Living Mountains" are facing severe threats
Date
7/17/2024 6:45:35 AM
(MENAFN) The Himalayas, often referred to as "Living Mountains," are facing severe threats that could have devastating consequences for millions. According to Smriti Basnett, a glaciologist from Sikkim, the region is suffering significant environmental degradation. She emphasizes that if we regard the Himalayas as a living entity, it has already "lost its legs," and its essential life forces are being compromised by rising temperatures caused by climate change and increased human activity.
The accelerated melting of snow is primarily due to the heating of rocks beneath the thin ice layers during summer months. Basnett warns that in the next 30 to 40 years, the vital rivers originating from these mountains could begin to run dry, threatening both local ecosystems and human populations dependent on these water sources.
In light of these alarming trends, over 60 social organizations across various Himalayan states—such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim—are advocating for the Himalayas to be recognized as a "Living Entity." This legal designation would grant the region the same rights and protections as humans, drawing urgent attention to the ongoing Himalayan crisis. This movement is reminiscent of the Ganges River's "living status," granted seven years ago in India.
Activists are also highlighting systemic issues in planning for development projects and the social inequities that arise during relief and rehabilitation efforts. Prakash Bhandari, co-founder of the NGO Himdhara, points out that the increasing frequency of natural disasters in the region—such as landslides, flash floods, and flooding in the plains—can be attributed to climate change, compounded by inadequate planning and practices from previous decades. The call for legal recognition of the Himalayas is not just about environmental protection; it’s a crucial step toward ensuring a sustainable future for both the mountains and the millions who rely on them.
MENAFN17072024000045015687ID1108449559
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.