Aravalli Range's Role in Shielding Gangetic Plains from Thar Dust
This article is relevant to UPSC Civil Services Exam, specifically for Geography and Environment sections under the syllabus of 'Ecological and Environmental Geography of India' and 'Environmental Issues'.
UPSC Relevance
This article is relevant to UPSC Civil Services Exam, specifically for Geography and Environment sections under the syllabus of 'Ecological and Environmental Geography of India' and 'Environmental Issues'.
What You Need to Know
The Aravalli range plays a crucial role in shielding the densely populated Indo-Gangetic plains from Thar Desert dust. The range acts as a natural barrier, obstructing the path of hot winds from the west and reducing their speed, thereby dropping their load of sand and dust. This process creates sand dunes, known as 'obstacle dunes', which are similar to those found in desert regions.
Why It Matters for UPSC
The Aravalli range's protective role is vital as it prevents dust from reaching the Gangetic plains, which are densely populated. However, the range is under stress due to degradation caused by loss of vegetation and mining activities. This degradation can have severe consequences, including increased frequency and intensity of dust storms, which can alter the amount of sunlight reaching the ground, affecting surface temperatures, and deteriorating air quality.
Current Relevance
The Aravalli range's degradation is a pressing concern, with a 2018 Forest Survey of India assessment revealing that 31 of 128 Aravalli hills in Rajasthan had disappeared due to anthropogenic pressures. The Environment Ministry has identified mining, deforestation, and land-use change as causes of degradation. This issue is particularly relevant in the context of recent news on dust storms and their impact on Delhi's air quality.
Key Points for Revision
- •The Aravalli range acts as a natural barrier against Thar Desert dust, protecting the Gangetic plains.
- •The range's degradation can lead to increased frequency and intensity of dust storms.
- •31 of 128 Aravalli hills in Rajasthan have disappeared due to anthropogenic pressures.
- •Mining, deforestation, and land-use change are major causes of Aravalli's degradation.
- •Dust storms can alter sunlight and surface temperatures, and deteriorate air quality.
- •The Aravalli range's protection is crucial for the densely populated Indo-Gangetic plains.
Prelims Practice MCQs
Q1. What is the primary role of the Aravalli range in relation to the Thar Desert dust?
The Aravalli range acts as a natural barrier, obstructing the path of hot winds from the west and reducing their speed, thereby dropping their load of sand and dust.
Q2. What is a major cause of the Aravalli range's degradation?
The Environment Ministry has identified mining, deforestation, and land-use change as causes of degradation in the Aravalli range.