Out of the 25 prominent water bodies in Hyderabad, 23 have failed to meet the water quality standards set by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). With the presence of high levels of faecal coliform, all 23 water bodies fall below the class-E category, which means that their water is not even fit for irrigation and industrial cooling. The continuous flow of sewage into the water bodies is the reason behind this damage which is almost irreparable.
A first of its kind assessment by the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has revealed that out of the 68 fish species in the country, 47 are vulnerable to climatic changes. The vulnerability in the fish species is higher on the east coast, especially in the waters of Odisha and West Bengal. The study also recommends tackling overfishing by reducing the number of fishing boats, regulating juvenile fish catch, and enforcing bans during breeding seasons and preventing further destruction of coastal habitats.
Andhra Pradesh's much touted Pattiseema lift scheme that links the Godavari and the Krishna rivers has resulted in the spreading of alien invasive fish species--devil fish--in the Krishna river. The fish made its way into the Prakasam barrage across the Krishna river and has now invaded the Nagarjunasagar reservoir. Experts have warned that devil fish may soon spread to Srisailam reservoir which is upstream of Nagarjunasagar dam. Alien invasive fish species make the survival of native ones difficult as they compete with them for food and space.
After the rains in the city due to cyclone Vardah, Varthur lake has frothed again causing trouble to the residents and the passers-by. The lake which has not been desilted since 1970, is a victim of unscientific dumping of solid waste and discharge of untreated industrial waste. Taking note of the lake’s dismal state, a local group has written to civic authorities to take immediate action against pollution in city’s lake.
Hindu Kush Himalayas could experience water flow alterations, thanks to climate change
According to a study conducted by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), shifts in rain and snow due to climate change will have more impact on water supplies and groundwater recharge of the Hindu Kush Himalayan region than the glacial retreat. Moreover, the study states that at lower elevations, the glacial retreat is unlikely to cause significant changes to the region's water availability while the higher elevation areas could experience alterations in water flow due to the receding glaciers.
This is a roundup of important news from December 19 - 24, 2016. Also, read the policy matters this week.