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Scientists Probe Mulugu Tree Uprooting
Telangana: Investigating the Uprooting of Trees in Mulugu
In a perplexing event, tens of thousands of trees were uprooted in the Eturunagaram wildlife sanctuary between Mulugu and Tadvai mandals in Telangana. This unusual phenomenon has left both forest officials and climate scientists puzzled as they investigate the potential causes behind this localized event.
Possible Causes of Tree Uprooting
Experts are exploring various possibilities that might have contributed to the mass uprooting of trees. While a squall or gale during thunderstorms is a likely cause, scientists are considering other factors such as soil conditions, tree age, road alignment, and wind dynamics.
Soil Lithology and Weak Zones
Dr. N Sai Bhaskar Reddy, a climate consultant, suggests that soil lithology could be a major factor in the tree uprooting. He points out that a weak zone of soil might exist in the affected area. Water penetrating into the soil and bedrock could act as a lubricant, causing the soil to move, similar to events observed during the Wayanad landslides. This movement of soil could destabilize the trees, making them more susceptible to uprooting.
Wind Dynamics and Road Alignment
Another critical aspect being considered is the direction and force of the wind. According to Dr. Reddy, trees serve as natural windbreaks; however, the alignment of the road passing through the forest might have altered the wind patterns, increasing the vulnerability of the trees. Additionally, the age of the trees could have played a role, as younger trees might not have developed strong root systems, making them more prone to being uprooted during extreme weather conditions.
Expert Analysis of Wind Forces
Climate expert Dr. Donthi Narasimha Reddy provided insights into the wind dynamics that could have caused such widespread damage. He estimates that the winds might have blown at speeds of 80 to 90 km per hour. He explained that when cool air from higher altitudes meets warmer air from the ground, it can result in powerful downdrafts, similar to the wind turbulence experienced in airplanes. Such forces can cause significant damage, as observed in the uprooting of trees in Mulugu.
Dr. Reddy also noted that while such squalls are common in regions like West Bengal and Odisha, this is the first time a similar phenomenon has been observed in Telangana. This rare occurrence has prompted a deeper investigation to understand the unique weather patterns contributing to the event.
Impact on Native Species and Forest Management
The uprooted trees in Mulugu were primarily native species planted by the forest department. Most of these trees were relatively young, which may have increased their susceptibility to the extreme weather event. The affected area spans approximately 3 kilometers, highlighting the localized nature of the destruction.
In response to the devastation, Women and Child Welfare Minister Dannasari Anasuya has requested a central team to visit the site and assess the causes of this confined event. She has also instructed forest officials to take immediate steps to protect the remaining trees that can still be saved.
Ongoing Investigation and Use of Technology
District Forest Officer Rahul Jawed and his team are actively investigating the incident. They are utilizing satellite data, as well as information from the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) and the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), to analyze the extreme weather conditions that may have led to the uprooting.
The investigation aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the factors contributing to this phenomenon and to develop strategies to prevent such events in the future. The findings could offer valuable insights into managing forest ecosystems and mitigating the impacts of extreme weather on vulnerable tree populations.
Conclusion
The uprooting of trees in Mulugu presents a complex challenge that involves multiple environmental factors. As scientists and forest officials continue their investigation, their findings will not only address the immediate causes but also contribute to broader knowledge about forest management and resilience against extreme weather events.
Disclaimer
This article is based on preliminary reports and expert opinions. As the investigation is ongoing, the conclusions drawn here may evolve with new information. The intent is to provide an overview of the incident and highlight the scientific inquiry into this localized phenomenon.
