Urgent steps needed to create green cover, plant and protect trees to control intense heat:

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BK Singh

If we don’t take serious steps to control unprecedented heat conditions we all are going to suffer badly.

Not only us but future generations will also suffer, say scientists and environmentalists.

One person one tree should be the minimum ratio. But along with planting trees one has to look after their proper growth and safety, says Anuradha Pandey environmentalist and a geography teacher.

In urban areas, trees and green spaces can help mitigate the urban heat island effect, reducing temperatures and improving overall livability.

Forests and vegetation have significant impact on the environment.

Forest and vegetation influence local climate through evapotranspiration which helps regulate temperature and precipitation pattenrs.

Trees and plants can absorb and store carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate climate change.

Forests can create microclimates, providing shades and moderating temperatures.

Roots of trees and plants help stabilize soil, preventing erosion and reducing risk of landslide.

Forest and vegetation improve soil quality by adding organic matter and nutrients and enhance water infiltration and ground water recharge.

Vegetation helps regulate water flow, reducing risks of floods and droughts, say various studies. This also improves air quality.

Trees and plants can greatly remove air pollutants, such as particulate matter, ozone, and nitrogen oxides through absorption and deposition. Forests can help produce oxygen and remove carbon dioxide, improving overall air quality, says Dr Ashwajeet Chaudhary, of AUs Geography department. PM

Forests and vegetation provide habitats for a wide range of plants and animal species, supporting biodiversity. They act as corridors and refuge for wild life, enabling species movement and migration, say reports.

Vegetation, especially dense planting, can act as natural barriers, reducing noise pollution and wind speeds.

Development has been eating space. Concrete structure has taken away space for greenery that helps in balancing temperature. This needs to be balanced, says Dr Ashwajeet Chaudhary, of AUs Geography department.

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