In an alarming turn of events, snow on Om Parvat in Uttarakhand has melted completely. This is the first time that this has ever happened. Locals as well as climate experts are worried about this concerning series of events. If the hill stays without snow for long, tourism may be impacted in the region. Here are all of the important details that you would need to know about this particular alarming development.
Snow On Om Parvat In Uttarakhand Melts For The First Time
At 5900 meters, Om Parvat is without no snow for first time. This is result of climate change & reduced snowfall while “development” like road widening, tourism & mining have added fuel to fire. Nature is giving many warnings but no one has time/patience to listen!#Uttarakhand pic.twitter.com/9ZVCE4Cu64
— Anoop Nautiyal (@Anoopnautiyal1) August 26, 2024
According to an article which was recently published by the Deccan Herald or DH, the reasons for this phenomenon are complex. As per the article, scarce rainfall in the region combined with scattered snowfall may have resulted in the snow-less peak.
Located in the Vyas Valley of Uttarakhand at an altitude of 14,000 ft., this is a spiritually significant destination for a number of people. Owing to the hill which is shaped like the symbol ‘Om’ written in snow, the destination has served as an affirmation of faith for many.
According to an official cited in the DH article, another reason for the disappearance of snow could be the rising temperatures in eco-sensitive zones as well as global warming. What is more, there is an increasing number of fuel-driven cars in these eco-sensitive zones that further raise temperatures.
Climate Scientists Worried About The Alarming Development
As per experts, a thorough investigation of the causes needs to be carried out. In the recent past, Uttarakhand has witnessed a number of forest fires. These forest fires generate a lot of carbon that harms the environment of the sensitive zones.
In addition to this, after PM Modi’s visit last year, the place has witnessed a significant rise in tourist footfall. As per an official, the footfall has increased at least ten times. This has also contributed to the eventual melting of the snow.
Also Read: Video Captures Deadly Monsoon Surge, Tourists Swept Off By Rising Waterfall In Chamoli, Uttarakhand
Have you ever visited Om Parvat in Uttarakhand? Let us know in the comments section below!
Cover Image Credits: @Anoopnautiyal1/X (Formerly, Twitter) and Wikimedia Commons
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