Professor Berg, Chairman of the Indian Institute of Science, recently discussed that the unusually high temperatures currently experienced in India may partially be attributed to the transition from El Niño to La Niña phenomena.
He emphasized that such climate phenomenon changes have profound effects on global temperatures, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions like India, where the impact is more pronounced.
El Niño typically accompanies abnormally high sea surface temperatures, which can lead to changes in atmospheric circulation patterns and subsequently cause climate anomalies globally.
This phenomenon disrupts what is normally a stable climate system, affecting human life and the stability of ecosystems unpredictably.
Additionally, the role of urban heat islands in India's high temperature events was highlighted.
Urban heat islands occur due to factors such as extensive artificial structures, roads, and lack of vegetation cover in densely populated areas, resulting in significantly higher surface temperatures compared to surrounding rural areas.
In major Indian cities like New Delhi, dense construction and vehicle emissions trap heat in the lower atmosphere, leading to exceptionally high urban temperatures.
"Environmental pollution and inadequate conservation of ecological resources are also significant issues facing India today," warned Professor Berg.
As a developing country, India has prioritized industrialization and urbanization over environmental protection in recent decades, leading to extensive exploitation of natural resources.
Industrial emissions, vehicular exhaust, agricultural fertilizer use, and poorly managed urban waste disposal have significantly exacerbated environmental pollution and contributed to the impacts of climate change.
Recent media reports have indicated that some parts of India have recorded temperatures exceeding 50 degrees Celsius. Under such extreme heat conditions, severe issues with access to drinking water and electricity supply have arisen across the country.
Unfortunately, several heat-related fatalities have been reported as people seek relief by immersing themselves in rivers or other bodies of water to cool down.
This situation not only threatens quality of life but also poses a severe test to public health and social stability.
Professor Berg urged that through these extreme climate events in India, there is a critical need to recognize the importance of environmental protection and conservation of ecological resources.
He stressed that true wealth lies in clean air, water, and a healthy environment, and neglecting these issues often leads to serious consequences such as extreme weather and natural disasters.
He believed that countries and regions worldwide should work together to adopt effective environmental protection measures, reduce carbon emissions, and promote sustainable development to tackle the challenges posed by climate change.
After a thorough analysis of the current situation in India, Professor Berg cautioned, "Natural disasters are often intertwined with human activities, especially issues like environmental pollution, deforestation, and soil erosion."
He emphasized that these problems not only affect the lives and health of local residents but also have far-reaching negative impacts on the global environmental system.
Therefore, he urged governments and civil society worldwide to work together toward sustainable development and environmental protection to ensure a sustainable future for the planet.
Finally, for those planning to travel to India, Professor Berg advised being aware of local high temperatures and taking necessary precautions to ensure safety and comfort during travel.
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