Tamil Nadu hill district faces near 0 temperatures, prompts concerns from experts
The dramatic drop in temperatures has adversely affected daily life, tea plantations, and vegetable farms
The recent unexpected drop in temperature in the hill district has caused significant challenges for the local residents. This unseasonal change in climate is affecting both the people and the agriculture in the region. The lush green lawns are now covered in frost, and dense fog is reducing visibility, making it difficult for locals to go about their daily lives. The dip in temperature has also led to various health issues among the residents.
In many areas, people are resorting to gathering around bonfires to keep warm, highlighting the severity of the cold spell. Official data reveals that temperatures have plummeted to 1 degree Celsius in Kanthal and Thalaikuntha in Udhagamandalam, with slightly higher readings of 2 degrees Celsius in the Botanical Garden and 3 degrees Celsius in Sandynallah.
This unusual cold, coupled with a dry spell, is a cause for concern among the locals, who find this weather pattern to be atypical for the region. The chilling conditions are not only impacting daily life but are also posing challenges for various sectors, including agriculture.
Environmental activist V Sivadas from the Nilgiri Environment Social Trust (NEST) believes that the shift in weather patterns can be attributed to global warming and the El Niño effect. He emphasizes the need for a thorough study to understand and address the impact of this climatic change on the Nilgiris.
The tea plantation industry, a significant economic activity in the region, is also grappling with the consequences of the weather shift. R Sukumaran, the secretary of a local tea workers union, notes that heavy rains in December, followed by the current cold spell, have adversely affected tea plantations. There are concerns that this may lead to reduced production in the upcoming months, impacting the livelihoods of those dependent on the tea industry.
Vegetable farmers are facing challenges too, especially with regards to cabbages. The unusual weather conditions have had a detrimental impact on the growth and quality of this particular crop. This spells trouble for the local farmers, who rely on their produce for sustenance and income.
N Ravichandran, a government employee, highlights the personal challenges posed by the cold conditions. It has become difficult for individuals to leave their homes early for work due to the extreme cold. Despite wearing appropriate attire, navigating two-wheelers has become a health risk, leading to issues such as difficulty in breathing, severe headaches, and fever.
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