Daily Current Affairs : 29-September-2023
In recent years, India has witnessed a surge in the planting of exotic tree species like Conocarpus, Vilayati Kikar, and Eucalyptus. These fast-growing trees were introduced with good intentions, aiming to increase green cover and serve various purposes. However, their unintended consequences have raised concerns among environmentalists and policymakers. This essay delves into the adverse effects of such exotic trees, highlighting their impact on the environment and human health.
The Conocarpus Ban in Gujarat: Understanding the Problem
- The Gujarat government’s decision to ban ornamental Conocarpus trees stemmed from their adverse effects on the environment and human health.
- Research reports have shown that Conocarpus trees spread pollen during winter, leading to diseases like cold, cough, asthma, and allergies.
- The extensive root system of Conocarpus damages telecommunication lines, drainage systems, and freshwater networks.
- Furthermore, these trees are unpalatable to plant-eating animals, disrupting the natural ecosystem.
Similar Cases: Vilayati Kikar and Eucalyptus
1. Vilayati Kikar: A Tale of Delhi’s Green Lungs
- The Vilayati Kikar, introduced by the British in the 1930s, quickly overtook native trees in Delhi’s Central Ridge.
- Its rapid growth led to the disappearance of native flora and fauna, causing a significant ecological imbalance.
- Additionally, Vilayati Kikar depleted water tables, exacerbating environmental challenges.
2. Eucalyptus in Kerala: A Commercial Endeavor Gone Awry
- British introduction of Eucalyptus in Kerala aimed at fueling tea plantation boilers but had unintended consequences.
- Cultivation of alien plants, including Eucalyptus, led to a reduction in fodder availability, forcing animals into human settlements.
- Commercial cultivation of Eucalyptus and other invasive plants disrupted forest habitats, impacting wildlife and biodiversity.
The Need for Sustainable Green Initiatives
- Emphasizing native species: Prioritize planting native trees that support local ecosystems and wildlife, ensuring a balanced environment.
- Public awareness: Educate communities about the importance of planting native trees and the adverse effects of exotic species, encouraging responsible environmental practices.
- Government policies: Enforce stringent regulations on the introduction and cultivation of exotic trees, considering their long-term impact on the environment and public health.
Important Points:
- Conocarpus Ban in Gujarat:
- Banned due to adverse effects on the environment and human health.
- Spread pollen causing diseases like cold, cough, asthma, and allergies.
- Extensive root system damages telecommunication lines, drainage systems, and freshwater networks.
- Leaves are unpalatable to plant-eating animals, disrupting the natural ecosystem.
- Vilayati Kikar in Delhi:
- Introduced by the British in the 1930s, it overtook native trees in Delhi’s Central Ridge.
- Rapid growth led to disappearance of native flora and fauna, causing ecological imbalance.
- Depleted water tables, exacerbating environmental challenges.
- Eucalyptus in Kerala:
- Introduced by the British for fueling tea plantation boilers in Kerala.
- Disrupted forest habitats, reducing fodder availability and forcing animals into human settlements.
- Commercial cultivation disrupted wildlife and biodiversity.
- Sustainable Green Initiatives:
- Emphasize planting native trees that support local ecosystems and wildlife.
- Raise public awareness about the importance of planting native trees and adverse effects of exotic species.
- Enforce stringent government regulations on introduction and cultivation of exotic trees.
Why In News
The Gujarat government, recognizing the adverse impacts of ornamental Conocarpus trees on the environment and human health, has imposed a ban on their planting ‘in forest or non-forest areas’, and is actively promoting the cultivation of native, eco-friendly plant species to preserve the ecological balance in the region.
MCQs about Exotic Trees in India
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What was the primary reason for the Gujarat government’s ban on Conocarpus trees?
A. Excessive water consumption
B. Adverse impacts on environment and human health
C. Rapid growth rate
D. Native species preservation
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Which of the following invasive trees depleted water tables and caused ecological imbalances in Delhi’s Central Ridge?
A. Eucalyptus
B. Vilayati Kikar
C. Conocarpus
D. Acacia
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What is the key solution suggested in the essay to address the issues caused by exotic trees in India?
A. Planting more exotic trees
B. Raising public awareness and emphasizing native species
C. Introducing more wildlife into affected areas
D. Expanding commercial cultivation of exotic trees
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Which of the following diseases are caused by the pollen spread by Conocarpus trees?
A. Diabetes and hypertension
B. Cold, cough, asthma, and allergies
C. Malaria and dengue fever
D. Arthritis and osteoporosis
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