WESTERN GHATS AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY: A STUDY

Abstract

Western ghats known as “sahyadri” is a mountain range in India that runs in the west coast of the country. They are UNESCO World Heritage Site. They are known for biodiversity, geological features and cultural heritage. They run through the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The western ghats contain biodiversity hotspots, tropical rain forests, grass lands etc,. The western ghats are home for rivers like Gothavari, Krishna and Kaveri. These ghats are important for regulating Indian monsoon as well as sequestering corban dioxide from atmosphere. Again, they are home for many endemic species (Both flora and fauna). Today western ghats face lots of threats. They are threatened by poaching, infrastructure development and loss of living space for wildlife. Protection of western ghats leads to sustainable growth. We have to take care of these ghats to avoid climate change, hazards and loss of hotspots of biodiversity. These ghats are protected by a number of laws, committees and programs. The goal is to protect region’s environment leading to sustainable growth. Natural disintegration of western ghats forms strategic minerals like ilmenite, monazite, zircon. They should be mined for the benefit of the nation without causing damage to environment.