THE CONTEXT: A study led by scientists from the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune, which forecasts the impact of global carbon emission trends on the Indian Ocean. It highlights the significant warming of the Indian Ocean, the increase in marine heatwaves, and their consequences, including the rapid formation of cyclones, coral bleaching, and harm to the fisheries sector. The study also points out the broader implications for India, such as more severe cyclones and erratic monsoon patterns, linking these phenomena to global warming and anthropogenic activities.
ISSUES:
- Increase in Marine Heatwaves: The Indian Ocean is experiencing a significant increase in marine heatwaves during extremely high sea temperatures. These heatwaves are expected to become more frequent and intense, potentially occurring 220-250 days per year by the end of the century, compared to the current average of 20 days per year.
- Impact on Cyclone Intensity and Frequency: The warming of the Indian Ocean is linked to an increase in the frequency and intensity of cyclones. This change is due to the higher sea surface temperatures, which provide more energy for cyclone formation.
- Effects on Monsoon Patterns: The marine heatwaves and overall warming of the Indian Ocean affect the monsoon, leading to more erratic and uneven patterns. This includes long spells of drought followed by intense rainfall and flooding, which can severely impact agriculture and water resources in India.
- Coral Bleaching and Damage to Marine Ecosystems: The increased temperatures and marine heatwaves are causing widespread coral bleaching and damage to aquatic ecosystems, which are crucial for the fisheries sector and biodiversity. This also affects the livelihoods of communities dependent on these resources.
- Need for Improved Data and Collaboration: There is a critical need for better data gathering and collaboration among countries bordering the Indian Ocean. The current data collection and monitoring efforts are insufficient compared to other regions like the Pacific. Enhanced international cooperation and investment in oceanographic research and infrastructure are necessary to understand better and mitigate the impacts of ocean warming.
THE WAY FORWARD:
- Enhanced International Collaboration: India could collaborate with other countries bordering the Indian Ocean to share resources, data, and strategies. This would improve the understanding of the Indian Ocean’s local and regional impacts and enhance the effectiveness of response strategies.
- Investment in Research and Data Collection: It is crucial to increase investment in oceanographic research and data collection, specifically in the Indian Ocean. This includes deploying more ocean monitoring systems to gather data on temperature changes, salinity levels, and ocean currents, less studied than other major oceans like the Pacific.
- Implementation of Advanced Forecasting Technologies: Developing and implementing advanced weather and climate forecasting technologies can help predict severe weather events more accurately. This would allow for better preparedness and timely responses to mitigate the impact of cyclones and intense rainfall events.
- Strengthening Coastal Infrastructure: Strengthening infrastructure along the coastlines to withstand severe weather events is essential. This includes building cyclone-resistant structures, improving drainage systems to handle heavy rainfall, and enhancing flood defenses.
- Promoting Sustainable Practices: Encouraging and implementing sustainable environmental practices can help mitigate some of the root causes of climate change. This includes reducing reliance on fossil fuels, promoting renewable energy sources, and implementing stricter regulations on emissions that contribute to ocean warming.
THE CONCLUSION:
The warming of the Indian Ocean poses severe threats to marine life and the Indian subcontinent’s climate patterns. To address these challenges, India should collaborate with other Indian Ocean-bordering countries to enhance data collection and projections. This collaborative effort is crucial for developing strategies to protect infrastructure and populations from the adverse effects of ocean warming, especially given the slow response of seas to changes in external inputs and the current inadequacy of global commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTION:
Q.1 How do ocean currents and water masses differ in their impacts on marine life and the coastal environment? Give suitable examples. 2019
Q.2 Explain the factors responsible for the origin of ocean currents. How do they influence regional climates, fishing, and navigation? 2015
MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:
Q.1 Discuss the implications of increasing marine heatwaves in the Indian Ocean on India’s regional climate and socio-economic conditions. Evaluate the measures needed to mitigate the adverse effects of these changes, considering the current global commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
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