According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), four key climate change indicators – greenhouse gas concentrations, sea level rise, ocean heat and ocean acidification – set new records in 2021. This is yet another clear sign that human activities are causing planetary scale changes on land, in the ocean, and in the atmosphere, with harmful and long-lasting ramifications for sustainable development and ecosystems, WMO said.
These warnings notwithstanding, it is business as usual for those whose action matters the most.
The ill-effects of climate changes are already pronounced in Jammu and Kashmir.
Climate change is the greatest challenge, present and long term that confronts every species on earth for it threatens human life beyond propositions.
As per the local meteorological department, Jammu and Kashmir received large deficient rain (<-80%) due to absence of any strong Western Disturbance.
Jammu city received only 2.1mm against normal of 68mm (96%) while Srinagar had 21.3mm of rainfall as against normal of 117.6mm (81.88%). The deficit, MeT said, was as a result of absence of any strong western disturbance. The weather remained fair and mainly clear on most occasions which led to early onset of spring and above normal temperature compared to the last few years.
The mean temperature in Jammu city in March this year was 23.3 ℃ which is quite high but not unusual as mean temperature even touched 24℃ in 2004 and 2010. The mean temperature in Srinagar city in March this year was 13.7℃ which is quite high but not strange as mean temperature touched 13.6 and 13.7 ℃ in 2004 & 2010 also in Srinagar.
There is no denying the fact that climate change is making itself felt in various manners. This means it is no longer a theory that can be disputed but it is a reality that has to be dealt with. There is need to move forward and take remedial measures. The failures of the past should not stand in the way of adopting targeted measures that are immediate and effective.
The climate is changing before our eyes. The heat trapped by human-induced greenhouse gases will warm the planet and lead to melting of glaciers. This will have long-term repercussions and water stress is going to be more pronounced.
These effects of extreme weather events coupled with economic shocks and COVID-19 pandemic threaten to exacerbate food security. All the stakeholders need to play their part and that too sans delay.