Topic: Geographical features and their location- changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps)
Q2. Assess the factors responsible for increasing temperature anomalies in Himalayan regions. Discuss their impact on river hydrology and mountain ecosystems. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: DTE
Why the question
Increasing temperature anomalies in the Himalayas are being observed in recent decades, influencing glacier dynamics, river regimes and fragile mountain ecosystems.Key Demand of the question
The question requires analysing the geographical and climatic factors responsible for temperature anomalies in the Himalayan region and examining their effects on river hydrology and mountain ecosystems.Structure of the Answer
Introduction
Briefly mention the Himalayas as a climate-sensitive region where small temperature increases can significantly affect cryospheric processes and ecological balance.Body
- Factors responsible for increasing temperature anomalies – Role of global warming, changing precipitation patterns, reduced snow cover and regional climatic processes influencing Himalayan temperatures.
- Impact on river hydrology – Effects on glacier retreat, altered snowmelt timing and seasonal flow variability of Himalayan rivers.
- Impact on mountain ecosystems – Consequences such as shifting vegetation zones, biodiversity stress and increasing vulnerability of fragile mountain ecosystems.
Conclusion
Highlight the need for improved climate monitoring, adaptive mountain water management and ecosystem conservation to address emerging climatic risks in the Himalayas.
