Deforestation

                    Deforestation

The term deforestation refers to the removal or reduction of forest cover.

          Causes of Deforestation

•Encroachment of forest land for

agricultural use to meet the growing 

demands of foods. 

•Expansion of cities to accommodate the growing population

•Construction of dams, canals, and highways 

•Establishment of industrial areas 

•Demand for firewood 

•Mining.

             Effects of Deforestation

•Loss of natural habitat of wild animals and plants

•Increased intensity and frequency of

floods

•Land degradation

•Loss of forest products 

•Change in climatic conditions

•Siltation of rivers and lakes 

•Loss of revenue 

•Change in hydrological cycle and reduced rainfall 

•Increased socio-economic problem in the long run.

                          Example

Once Cherrapunji was famous because it received the largest volume of rainfall in the world. It still does but ironically, experiences acute water shortages. This is mainly the result of extensive deforestation (no trees to hold the water and the water run off to rivers.Water harvesting could be a solution which has not been implemented properly.Rain water harvesting can solve the problems of the world's wettest town.

Scientists point out the example of Jaisalmer, one of the driest towns in India

in Rajasthan. With rainfall levels as little as 100 mm of water per year, it was found that if you harvest water on just one hectare of land, you would capture as much as one million litres of water --- enough to meet drinking and cooking water needs of 182 people at 15 litres per day for one year.

                  Control of Deforestation

•Mining activities should be prohibited in areas declared as 

protected forests.

•Cutting of trees should be followed by massive plantation.

•The environmental laws and legal provisions should be strictly 

enforced.

•Public awareness should be created regarding medicinal and other 

economic and environmental significance of forests.