Discuss the significance of the Himalayan region as a vital resource for South Asia. How does the exploitation of these resources affect the ecological balance of the region? [150 words, 10 marks]
Approach:
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- Introduction: Brief overview of the Himalayan region
- Body:
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- Significance as a vital resource (water, biodiversity, minerals, tourism)
- Importance for South Asian countries
- Ecological impacts of exploitation
- Conclusion: Need for sustainable management and regional cooperation
Model Answer:
Introduction: The Himalayan region, spanning across six countries in South Asia, is often called the "Third Pole" due to its vast ice reserves. This 2,400 km long mountain range is a critical resource hub, influencing the climate, hydrology, and biodiversity of the entire subcontinent.
Body:
Significance as a vital resource for South Asia:
- Water resources:
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- Source of major river systems (Indus, Ganges, Brahmaputra)
- Provides freshwater to over 1.9 billion people
- Supports agriculture, hydropower generation, and industrial activities
- Example: The Tehri Dam in Uttarakhand, India, generates 1,000 MW of hydroelectric power
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- Biodiversity hotspot:
- Home to over 10,000 plant species, 300 mammal species, and 977 bird species
- Source of medicinal plants and unique flora and fauna
- Example: The snow leopard, a keystone species, is found in the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas
- Mineral resources:
- Rich deposits of coal, limestone, marble, gold, and precious stones
- Supports local economies and industrial development
- Example: Nepal's Godavari Marble is famous for its quality and is exported worldwide
- Tourism potential:
- Attracts millions of tourists annually for trekking, mountaineering, and pilgrimage
- Significant source of revenue and employment
- Example: Bhutan's tourism policy of "High Value, Low Impact" generates substantial revenue while preserving the environment
Ecological impacts of exploitation:
- Loss of biodiversity:
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- Habitat destruction leading to decline in flora and fauna
- Example: The population of one-horned rhinoceros in Nepal declined by 70% due to poaching and habitat loss
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- Soil erosion and landslides:
- Deforestation and construction activities increase soil instability
- Example: The 2013 Uttarakhand floods in India, exacerbated by deforestation and unplanned construction
- Water scarcity and pollution:
- Glacial retreat due to climate change affects water availability
- Unregulated tourism and urbanisation lead to water pollution
- Example: The Ganges River faces severe pollution, affecting millions downstream
- Climate change impacts:
- Accelerated glacial melt alters hydrological cycles
- Increased frequency of extreme weather events
- Example: The rapid retreat of the Gangotri Glacier, receding at a rate of 12-13 metres per year
- Loss of traditional knowledge and practices:
- Displacement of indigenous communities
- Erosion of sustainable resource management practices
- Example: The shift from traditional terrace farming to modern agriculture in Nepal, leading to increased soil erosion
Conclusion: The Himalayan region's ecological balance is crucial for South Asia's sustainable development. Balancing resource utilisation with conservation requires regional cooperation, sustainable practices, and integration of indigenous knowledge to preserve this vital lifeline for future generations.
