Indian scientists are conducting diligent research to examine how climate change and pollution are influencing the crucial monsoon rains in the country. Led by Professor Kirti Sahu at the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, these studies aim to enhance rainfall predictions and deepen our understanding of the complex monsoon system.
The monsoon holds immense significance for India’s agrarian economy as it contributes nearly 70% of the required rainfall for agricultural activities and helps replenish reservoirs and aquifers. However, the changing climate and pollution levels are causing shifts in monsoon patterns, posing challenges for accurate forecasting.
The weakening of the South Asian monsoon, despite expectations of increased rainfall due to climate change, is attributed to the rise in aerosols resulting from human activities. Pollutants such as those emitted by burning fossil fuels, vehicle exhaust, dust, and sea salt contribute to the presence of aerosols in the atmosphere. These aerosols interact with the monsoon, leading to alterations in rainfall distribution and intensity.
To improve forecasting accuracy and mitigate the impact of these changes, the Indian government has made significant investments in advanced technologies. These include satellites, supercomputers, and specialized weather radar stations, named after the Hindu god of rain, Indra. However, while these advancements have brought incremental developments in forecasting, the interplay between climate change and aerosols in India makes it increasingly difficult to predict rainfall accurately.
The research being conducted by scientists like Professor Kirti Sahu and their teams aims to unravel the intricate dynamics of the monsoon system. By simulating cloud conditions and studying various factors such as aerosols, humidity, air currents, and temperature, they hope to gain insights into the formation of raindrops and better understand how changing conditions impact the monsoon.
Ultimately, the goal of these research endeavors is to provide improved forecasts and early warnings to authorities, enabling them to take proactive measures in response to extreme weather events. This includes planning evacuations during floods and implementing adaptation strategies like rainwater harvesting in regions affected by drought. By deepening our understanding of the monsoon and incorporating traditional knowledge alongside scientific advancements, scientists and policymakers can work together to safeguard India’s agricultural sector and the livelihoods of millions of farmers.