• UGI USER
  • Dec 11, 2023
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LOSS OF GREEN COVER IN CAUVERY BASIN

Why in the News?

  • Recently, it was discovered that Cauvery basin lost nearly 12,850 sq. km of green cover.
Source: The Hindu

 Regional Impact and Degradation:

  • Karnataka saw the highest reduction, losing 9,664.31 sq. km, while Tamil Nadu lost 2,905.36 sq. km of natural greenery.
  • The study highlighted adverse impacts on significant areas such as Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Bandipur and Nagarhole National Parks, and Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary due to diminishing forest covers.

Causes of Degradation:

  • Anthropogenic pressures were cited as a primary cause, leading to a 46% decline in natural vegetation, affecting areas like Bannerghatta National Park and its surrounding regions.

Vegetation Types Affected:

  • Dense vegetation faced a reduction of 35%, while degraded vegetation accounted for 63% of the lost cover, signifying the widespread impact on various vegetation types.

Dispute

Source: Zee News
  • Water sharing dispute: Karnataka and Tamil Nadu clash over sharing water from the Cauvery River, crucial for irrigation and drinking.
  • Historical claims: Both states claim historical rights to the water, leading to arguments based on past treaties and usage patterns.
  • Tribunal intervention: The Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal allocated specific water shares in 2007, but disputes and protests continue.
  • Political tug-of-war: Politicians often exploit the issue for their own gain, further fueling tensions between states.