Climate Change Effect Visible In Madhya Pradesh; Forests Shrinking, Water Of All Rivers Undrinkable: Experts

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Madhya Pradesh is going downhill on almost all parameters of environmental pollution. The air, soil and water are getting increasingly polluted in the state. The forest cover is shrinking and temperatures are rising.  The situation is alarming, say environment experts.  

According to the India State of Forest Report 2023, the forest cover of Madhya Pradesh has declined by 371 sq km between 2021 and 2023 and Very Dense Forests (VDF), covered 5,5056 sq km area in 2023, as against 6,468 sq km in 2021.

Former deputy director at Van Vihar National Park, Bhopal, Sudesh Waghmare said that MP was once known for its dense forests which covered a large part of the geographical area. The forests were a shield against pollution, the state’s forest, however, is shrinking and its quality is declining, he added.

“The effect of climate change is very visible in the state. “It has been raining for most of the summer season. This unseasonal rain is a clear indication that the climate of the state is changing,” said Waghmare.

According to Waghmare, the air quality of major cities in the state is deteriorating mainly due to vehicular and industrial pollution. “Now, we all know what AQI is. Earlier, we heard about it only with reference to metros,” he said, adding that the water of not a single river in the state is potable.

Environmental scientist Subhash Pande said that the authorities have failed to control rampant felling of forests and uncontrolled sand mining. “In the 1990s, 60% of Bhopal was covered with greenery. Now, it has reduced to barely 4 % with the result that the temperatures have risen by 7-8 degrees,” he said.  

According to  Pande, stubble burning has started in the state, which is contributing majorly to air pollution. And sand mining is threatening to reduce Narmada - the only perennial state in the state - to a seasonal rivulet. “The situation is nothing short of alarming,” he said