Global surface temperature breaks past records
According to Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) and the US National Aeronautics Space Agency (NASA) May 2014 has been the warmest in recorded history. The global and land temperatures during the month have deviated by 0.76°C and are expected to worsen due to the El Nino effect. The heat wave in the country has already created a drought-like situation in many parts and the condition has been further aggravated by a 49% deficit in rainfall.
Bhutan dams pose risk to Assam
Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), a regional party in Assam, has criticized Narendra Modi for launching the 600 MW Kholongchu hydroelectric project in Bhutan. According to AGP, the dam will pose a danger to the state's people living in the dowstream. Also, the Assam Chief Minister has urged the Union Ministry to form an expert committee for carrying out a comprehensive study of the downstream impacts of the proposed dams in Bhutan.
Queen's Stepwell identified as UNESCO World Heritage Site
Queen's Stepwell or Rani ki Vav in Patan, Gujarat, has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exemplary technological development in using groundwater resources. The 11th century stepwell is a masterpiece in water management system and is preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India who nominated it for the title in February last year.
DDA to use soil-biotechnology for water treatment
Following the footsteps of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, the Delhi Development Authority is all set to treat the remediated water from Palam drain in the capital using the soil biotechnology, a technique that removes contamination from water using organisms. The pilot project, worth Rs. 3.75 crore, will be jointly executed by INTACH and Vision Earthcare and is expected to commission by end of December this year.
Environment Ministry to seek public opinion on green ads
The Environment Ministry plans to take creative inputs or ideas from the general public or experts outside government for developing official advertisements. The decision is taken following the success of newspaper advertisements on the 'World Day to Combat Desertification' on June 17 for which entries were invited ahead of the event and the best one was selected. Through crowd sourcing, the government intends to involve the general public in awareness camapigns of green issues and promote public involvement in decision-making.
This is a weekly roundup of important news from June 16-22, 2014. Also read last week's policy matters updates.
Lead Image Source: Deccan Chronicle