Eastern Ghats fire activity increased 9% annually over 20-year satellite study
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Species, protected areas & wetlands· Prelims + Mains·
Climate change and anthropogenic impact on forest fires: a key GS3 Environment and Ecology topic.
Why in news
The Centre for Wildlife Studies (CWS) released a 20-year satellite study revealing a 9% annual increase in fire activity in the Eastern Ghats due to drought and human factors.
Background
The study analyzed NASA's MODIS sensor data from 2002 to 2022. It found that fire activity increased 9% annually in the Eastern Ghats, rose modestly in Central India, and declined 11% in the Western Ghats.
Facts for Prelims
- S&TMODIS: A NASA satellite sensor used to monitor land surface temperature and fire activity.
- FactFire activity in the Eastern Ghats increased by 9% annually over a 20-year period.
- FactFire activity in the Western Ghats declined by 11% during the same period.
- FactDrought and human factors were found to explain 21-77% of fire activity in the study area.
Prelims practice question
With reference to forest fire activity in the Eastern Ghats, consider the following statements:
- Drought and human factors explain 21-77% of the fire activity in the study area.
- Fire activity in the Western Ghats showed an increase of 11% during the same period.
- Fire activity in the Eastern Ghats increased by 9% annually over a 20-year period.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)1 and 2 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only — Statements 1 and 3 are correct. Statement 2 is incorrect: Fire activity in the Western Ghats declined by 11%.
For Mains
Q. Analyze the impact of anthropogenic factors and climatic variability on forest fire dynamics in the Eastern Ghats and suggest mitigation strategies.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Anthropogenic pressure: Encroachment and agricultural clearing increasing fuel loads in Eastern Ghats
- Climatic vulnerability: Correlation between prolonged drought cycles and increased fire frequency
- Data-driven conservation: Utilizing MODIS satellite imagery for real-time fire risk mapping and early warning
Keywords: Anthropogenic impact · Satellite monitoring · Climatic variability · Forest fire management · Biodiversity conservation
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.