Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Eastern Ghats, a discontinuous range of mountains along India’s eastern coastline, represent a unique geological and ecological landscape. Unlike the continuous and higher Western Ghats, the Eastern Ghats are older, more eroded, and fragmented. Stretching from Tamil Nadu in the south to West Bengal and Jharkhand in the north, these hills harbor a rich biodiversity, playing a crucial role in regional climate and water security. Understanding their geological characteristics is fundamental to appreciating their ecological significance and the challenges they face.
Geological Characteristics
The Eastern Ghats are archaean to Precambrian in origin, significantly older than the Himalayas and even the Western Ghats. Their formation began around 3 billion years ago. Key geological features include:
- Rock Types: Predominantly composed of khondalite, charnockite, and granite, reflecting their ancient metamorphic origins. These rocks are highly resistant to erosion, contributing to the formation of plateaus and isolated hills.
- Discontinuous Nature: Unlike the continuous Western Ghats, the Eastern Ghats are broken into several isolated hill ranges due to prolonged erosion and faulting. This fragmentation impacts biodiversity and water flow.
- Erosion & Relief: Significant erosion has resulted in lower average elevations compared to the Western Ghats, generally ranging from 600-1600 meters. The relief is less pronounced, leading to different hydrological regimes.
- Important Ranges: Key ranges include the Palkonda Hills, Nallamala Hills, Srikonda Hills, and the Simlipal Hills. Each range exhibits unique geological formations.
Ecological Significance
The Eastern Ghats are a biodiversity hotspot, though less publicized than the Western Ghats. Their ecological significance stems from:
- Biodiversity Hotspot: Home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several endemic species. The region supports tropical dry deciduous forests, moist deciduous forests, and scrublands.
- Flora: Notable plant species include Pterocarpus santalinus (Red Sanders), Diospyros melanoxylon (Ebony), and various medicinal plants. These forests are vital for timber, non-timber forest produce, and traditional medicine.
- Fauna: The Eastern Ghats are home to endangered species like the Indian elephant, tiger, leopard, sloth bear, and various species of deer. They also support a rich avian fauna, including the Indian Vulture and the Grey-headed Fish Eagle.
- Watershed Function: The hills act as crucial watersheds, feeding several major rivers like the Godavari, Mahanadi, Krishna, and Cauvery. They play a vital role in groundwater recharge and maintaining water security for downstream populations.
- Unique Ecosystems: The Simlipal Biosphere Reserve in Odisha is a prime example, showcasing a unique ecosystem with Sal forests and a significant tiger population.
Conservation Challenges
Despite their ecological importance, the Eastern Ghats face several threats:
- Deforestation: Illegal logging, particularly of Red Sanders, and forest clearing for agriculture pose a significant threat.
- Mining: Bauxite mining and other mineral extraction activities are causing habitat destruction and pollution.
- Fragmentation: The fragmented nature of the hills makes them vulnerable to edge effects and reduces gene flow between populations.
- Human-Wildlife Conflict: Increasing human population and encroachment into forest areas lead to conflicts with wildlife.
- Lack of Conservation Focus: Compared to the Western Ghats, the Eastern Ghats receive less attention in terms of conservation efforts and funding.
| Feature | Eastern Ghats | Western Ghats |
|---|---|---|
| Age | Archean to Precambrian (older) | Later geological formations (younger) |
| Continuity | Discontinuous, fragmented | Continuous range |
| Elevation | Lower average elevation (600-1600m) | Higher average elevation (higher peaks) |
| Rock Type | Khondalite, Charnockite, Granite | Basalt, Laterite |
Conclusion
The Eastern Ghats, though geologically ancient and fragmented, are ecologically vital for biodiversity conservation and regional water security. Addressing the threats of deforestation, mining, and habitat fragmentation requires a holistic conservation approach, including community participation, sustainable resource management, and increased investment in protected areas. Recognizing the unique characteristics of the Eastern Ghats and tailoring conservation strategies accordingly is crucial for safeguarding this invaluable natural heritage.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.