By SUNIL SONKER
DEHRADUN, 12 Feb: Lack of snowfall in Mussoorie this year has really raised major concerns, as this place is mainly known for its snowfall and cold climate. Lack of snowfall not only affects the number of tourists, but can also have a bad effect on the local environment and economic situation. Snowfall is a major attraction in Mussoorie, especially in the winter season. Tourists throng to Mussoorie especially to view the snowfall, and lack of snowfall is telling on the tourism industry of Mussoorie and surrounding area. Hotels, restaurants, and other tourism-related businesses are taking a beating. Snowfall in Mussoorie and surrounding areas is an important way to recharge water sources. When the snow melts after snowfall, it stores water in reservoirs. But this year’s deficit in snowfall may lead to depletion of water sources, which may affect water supply in the upcoming tourist season. Agriculture is also an important source of livelihood in Mussoorie and surrounding areas. Lack of snowfall, especially in winters, has led to lack of cooling, which is affecting the cultivation of fruits and vegetables. Lack of snowfall can also be a sign of climate change. It can result in environmental imbalance, and due to this, there is a long-term impact on snowy peaks, glaciers and other natural resources. This situation has become a major cause of concern for the local administration, environmentalists and the community, as it can be seen as a long-term environmental problem, not just a weather phenomenon.
Unplanned development and illegal construction in Mussoorie is bound to affect snowfall, which is related to climate change and environmental imbalance. In hill stations like Mussoorie, trees have been cut down on a large scale during unplanned development. Trees help in controlling the climate and keep the environment balanced. When the number of trees decreases, there may be a decrease in moisture in the air, which reduces the chances of snowfall. Atmospheric pollution has increased in Mussoorie due to illegal construction work and urbanization. Construction material, smoke from vehicles and other pollution elements are dissolved in the atmosphere and affecting the weather. Mountains are being cut on a large scale. This increases the amount of pollution particles, which is hindering cloud formation and snowfall. Due to unplanned development in Mussoorie, land use is changing in the hilly areas. Converting agricultural land for construction activities like buildings, hotels and other development works has its negative impact on the local ecosystem. This is also affecting the climate in the area, due to which there is no snowfall in Mussoorie. It should be clearly understood that when unplanned development takes place in hilly areas, an imbalance in climatic conditions. The pressure of development in mountainous areas affects the local climate pattern, which affects natural phenomena like snowfall. Due to more urbanization, there is also a change in air pressure, which can affect snowfall. Illegal construction and unplanned development can also affect the geological structure of hilly areas. It can lead to the collapse of silt and rocks, soil erosion and water flow, which is also affecting the climate and weather of the region. All these factors have affected the snowfall in Mussoorie. If such illegal constructions and unplanned developments continue like this, it can cause problems not only for snowfall but also for the local ecosystem and environment in the long run.
