Question

There was a severe drought in Maharashtra in 2013. Explain the role of deforestation in these droughts.
[3 MARKS]

Answer 1

Explanation: 3 Marks

Plants need carbon dioxide for photosynthesis. Fewer trees result in less carbon dioxide being used up leading to its increased accumulation in the atmosphere. This leads to global warming as carbon dioxide traps the heat rays reflected by the earth. The increase in temperature on the earth disturbs the water cycle thus reducing the amount of precipitation or rainfall. Less rainfall causes droughts. The severe drought in Maharashtra was a direct outcome of extensive deforestation.