Uttarakhand

• 30 Aug 2024

No Snow on Om Parvat

Why in News?

Recently, For the first time in recorded history, snow has vanished from Om Parvat in Uttarakhand, sparking profound concerns among environmentalists.

Key Points

• Experts have attributed this unprecedented event primarily to the deficient rainfall and sporadic snowfall observed in the upper Himalayan region over the past five years.
• The significant decline in precipitation has directly contributed to the diminishing snow cover on Om Parvat. Moreover, the escalation of vehicular pollution and the effects of global warming have further aggravated the situation.
  • The implications of this event has potential repercussions for the region's tourism industry.
• The disappearance of snow from Om Parvat serves as a stark indicator of the broader ramifications of climate change.
  • The Himalayan region, characterized by its fragile ecosystem, is especially susceptible to alterations in temperature and precipitation patterns.
  • The rise in global temperatures has accelerated glacier melt and diminished snowfall, impacting the region's natural beauty and the water resources.
• Efforts to mitigate the impact of climate change in the region must encompass measures such as reducing vehicular emissions, managing forest fires, and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
  • Assessing the carrying capacity of ecologically sensitive areas and enforcing stringent regulations on vehicular activity can aid in preserving the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the Himalayas.

Om Parvat

• It is located in the Vyas Valley of Pithoragarh district, Uttarakhand at an altitude of approximately 14,000 feet.
• It is renowned for its snow-capped peak that naturally forms a pattern resembling the Hindu symbol “Om.”
  • This unique feature has made it a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike.