Global Warming and Climate Change: An Urgent Call for Action

Global warming and climate change are driving unexpected environmental shifts around the world. Factors such as population explosion, the mass production of four-wheelers and two-wheelers, industrial growth, the use of high-yield seeds, excessive fertilizers, pollution of rivers, vehicular emissions, deforestation for infrastructure development, and the conversion of fertile agricultural land into urban areas have all contributed significantly to these environmental crises. Additionally, our changing lifestyles and rapid urbanization have exacerbated the problem.

In India, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in various cities has reached alarmingly high levels. Unfortunately, politicians continue to engage in blame games, pointing fingers at one another rather than addressing the crisis. Stubble burning, a common agricultural practice, often becomes a political talking point, with leaders making allegations without offering solutions. While stubble burning contributes to air pollution, it is far from the only factor. Emissions from vehicles, industrial pollution, and the use of firecrackers are also significant contributors.

Population growth, the increasing number of vehicles, the construction of high-rise buildings, large-scale deforestation for infrastructure, and the release of untreated industrial waste into rivers all pose severe health hazards. Polluted water used for agriculture further threatens food safety and public health. The deteriorating air quality is a major health risk, causing respiratory issues and exacerbating existing health conditions.

Global warming and climate change have also led to unpredictable weather patterns, including unseasonal rainfall and floods. These side effects have altered environmental scenarios worldwide. For example, deserts may one day become fertile agricultural land due to changing rainfall patterns. Although some rainfall in desert regions is induced artificially, it is plausible that climate change could permanently transform these landscapes. However, rising global temperatures are also causing glaciers and ice caps to melt, contributing to rising sea levels.

In Rajasthan, where deserts and sandstorms once dominated, heavy rains and floods are now being witnessed, drastically altering the environment. It is not far-fetched to imagine that desert regions could become arable in the future. However, maintaining ecological balance is crucial to ensure a sustainable future.

Humans must take responsibility for preserving the environment. Planting new saplings, which release oxygen, is vital. Industries must be regulated to ensure they treat waste before releasing it into rivers, thus protecting underground water tables. Although battery-operated vehicles are becoming more common, the vast number of petrol and diesel vehicles still on the roads continue to release harmful emissions. 

Only through collective action can we restore ecological balance and work towards a pollution-free environment. The future of our planet depends on our efforts today.

Authored by:
Rajat Kumar Mohindru  
Journalist
Jalandhar City