Current Affairs - Environment

A new species of catfish, Exostoma sentiyonoae, was discovered in the Dzuleke River in Nagaland, which is part of the Barak River system. The discovery was made by researchers Bungdon Shangningam from the Zoological Survey of India and Limatemjen from Kohima Science College. The newly identified catfish, catalogued as holotype ZSI FF 9871, measures 75.8 mm in length. This discovery adds to the rich biodiversity of Nagaland, a state known for its unique flora and fauna, further emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts in the region.

The Indian government designated 1.84 lakh hectares around the Gir Protected Area as an Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) to protect Asiatic lions and promote sustainable development. This ESZ spans 196 villages across three districts and includes 17 rivers, with a 10 km buffer zone from the Gir Protected Area's boundary. Gir National Park, located in Gujarat, India, is renowned for its conservation efforts and is home to a thriving population of Asiatic lions.

A massive landslide in Greenland triggered a 650-foot high mega-tsunami, which led to a mysterious seismic vibration lasting nine days and was detected globally. Initially thought to be a technical error, the vibration was traced back to this unprecedented event. The seismic waves from the landslide reached as far as Antarctica in about an hour, underlining the significant environmental changes happening in the Arctic due to climate change, with experts warning of increasing hazards in the region.

The Delhi government has implemented a complete ban on the production, sale, and use of firecrackers to address air pollution, particularly during the winter season. This measure, effective until January 1, 2025, is part of a broader 'Winter Action Plan' designed to reduce pollution levels and promote eco-friendly practices. The ban is intended to mitigate the harmful effects of firecrackers on air quality and public health, encouraging more sustainable methods of celebration.

A bird flu outbreak caused by the H5N1 strain of avian influenza was reported in Pipili town, Puri district, Odisha. As a response to the outbreak, over 11,700 chickens were culled to prevent the further spread of the virus. The virus was confirmed by the National Institute of High-Security Animal Disease. Similar incidents have been previously reported in Kerala and Maharashtra, highlighting the ongoing threat of avian influenza in India. This outbreak underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring and prompt action to control the spread of such infectious diseases.