Glacial Retreat:-The region is susceptible to glacial retreat due to climate change, leading to the shrinking of glaciers, altered water flow, and potential glacial lake outburst floods.
Deforestation:-Unauthorized construction and infrastructure development often result in deforestation, disrupting local ecosystems and increasing the risk of landslides and soil erosion.
Tourism Pressure:-The area experiences a high influx of tourists, which can lead to habitat disturbance, waste generation, and increased demand for resources, putting stress on the local environment.
Wildlife Conservation:Protecting the diverse wildlife in the region, including Himalayan tahr and snow leopards, is a challenge due to habitat fragmentation and poaching.
Soil Erosion and Landslides:-The steep terrain is prone to soil erosion and landslides, exacerbated by human activities and heavy rainfall events.
Water Pollution:- Pollution from tourism, construction, and waste disposal can contaminate local water bodies, affecting aquatic life and the communities downstream.
Climate Change:-The region is vulnerable to changing weather patterns, including increased temperatures and erratic rainfall, which can impact agriculture and water availability.
Infrastructure Development-Poorly planned infrastructure projects, such as roads and dams, can disrupt natural drainage systems, leading to floods and other ecological imbalances.
Efforts to address these challenges often involve a combination of sustainable tourism practices, afforestation, wildlife conservation measures, and climate change mitigation strategies to safeguard the fragile ecosystem of the Kedarnath region.
