SUNSHINE REDUCES IN INDIA
Indian economy is no doubt booming, but there are environmental problems. Times of India of Nov 16, 07 highlights some details of a research study, conducted by a team of IITM, Pune. This team carried out a
study of the data of solar radiations at 12 stations in India, during the period 1981-2004. The main finding is that the
quantum of
sunlight received by India is, about 5 % less than what was received by it, about 20 years back. There was a drop in the quantum of solar
radiation reaching Indian soil, on an average, by 0.86 watt per sq. metre each year. With more
industrial activities, the decrease is more in 1990s, as compared to that in 1980s.This appears to be due to the smog generated, as a result of increased industrial activities, pollution due to various reasons like vehicles, burning and dust storms etc. In view of this, the quantum of sunshine is gradually, though slowly, decreasing. The records of
temperature have also been studied. This indicates that maximum temperature in the day has increased by 0.04 deg. C while the minimum temperature in the night, has increased by 0.31 deg. C. But when correctives will be applied, the days may be brighter in future, though it may take quite some time.
More reviews about the Times of India