Carrying Capacity of Western Ghats

Context

The Karnataka government has initiated a comprehensive study to assess the carrying capacity of the Western Ghats in light of recent landslides and ecological degradation caused by linear infrastructure projects. The aim is to determine sustainable development thresholds in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Western Ghats – Ecological Significance:
- One of the eight “hottest hotspots” of biodiversity in the world.
- Notified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012.
- Spread across six Indian states: Gujarat (smallest part), Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
- Home to over 7,400 species of flora and fauna, of which around 325 are globally threatened.
Threats to the Western Ghats:
- Linear infrastructure (road-widening, railways, power lines).
- Deforestation, encroachments, and climate-induced landslides.
- Increased risk of soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and water scarcity.
Previous Studies and Recommendations:
- Gadgil Report (2011) by the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP) recommended declaring large parts as ESAs and restricting development.
- Kasturirangan Report (2013) suggested a more balanced approach, earmarking around 37% of the area as ESA.
Karnataka’s Role:
- Karnataka holds approximately 60% of its forest area within the Western Ghats.
- This is the first comprehensive study by a state to assess the entire region’s carrying capacity.
Policy Significance:
- Aligns with SDG 15 (Life on Land) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
- Promotes evidence-based environmental governance and disaster mitigation planning.

Carrying Capacity Concept:

It refers to the maximum population size or developmental pressure that a region can sustain without significant degradation of its environment.
Crucial for sustainable infrastructure planning in ecologically sensitive areas (ESAs).

PYQ:

Q 1. Consider the following statements: (2018)

1. In India, the Himalayas are spread over five States only.

2. Western Ghats are spread over five States only.

3. Pulicat Lake is spread over two States only.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q2. Which of the following are in Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve? (2019)

(a) Neyyar, Peppara and Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve
(b) Mudumalai, Sathyamangalam and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Silent Valley National Park
(c) Kaundinya, Gundla Brahmeswaram and Papikonda Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Mukurthi National Park
(d) Kawal and Sri Venkateswara Wildlife Sanctuaries; and NagarjunasagarSrisailam Tiger Reserve