GUWAHATI: An Indian team of scientists recently presented their study on “COP 24 Climate Conference” addressing their concern over the climatic conditions of Northeast. The team which has made an extensive study into the matter stated that among all the Himalayan states, Assam and Mizoram are the most vulnerable to climate change. Changes in the environment have always been a cause of concern and the recent study has raised red flags among the environmentalists.
Asserting that due to its geographic location, “Assam is one of the lowest areas under irrigation. It also has the lowest forest area per one thousand rural households among the twelve states taken up for the study.” Stating similar issues regarding the other Northeastern state, Mizoram “Around thirty percent of the geographical area is under slope in the state and is at high risk”, said the team. The scientists had also taken up 12 other western and eastern Himalayan states for the study according to parameters which are crucial for adaptation to climate change. ”The issue is of prime importance and needs to be taken seriously” they added.