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Environment

IPRD-2026 Concludes with Focus on Collaborative Ocean Governance and Responsible Marine Technologies

  • The International Partnership for Research and Development (IPRD) 2026 conference was concluded as per a PIB release.
  • The summit emphasized collaborative ocean governance involving multiple nations and stakeholders.
  • A key agenda was the promotion of responsible marine technologies for sustainable use of ocean resources.
  • Discussions highlighted aligning ocean policies with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water).
  • India pledged to strengthen its role in multilateral maritime cooperation and technology sharing.
Source: PIB India ↗
Environment

CESC staff join efforts to restore power supply in cyclone‑hit Andhra Pradesh

  • Severe cyclonic storms in Andhra Pradesh caused widespread power outages across several districts.
  • The Chennai Electricity Supply Company (CESC) deployed teams to the affected areas to repair damaged transmission lines and substations.
  • Restoration work is being coordinated with the state electricity board and local administration to prioritise hospitals, schools and water supply units.
  • Preliminary estimates suggest that over 2 lakh households remain without electricity, with restoration expected to take several days.
Source: The Hindu - National ↗
Environment

Study finds Climate Change Boosted Cyclone Arnab’s Damage by 33%

  • Climate change increased Cyclone Arnab's maximum wind speed by about 5% at landfall.
  • Eyewall rainfall intensity was amplified by roughly 11% due to climate change.
  • Overall damage from Cyclone Arnab was 33% higher because of climate‑related factors.
  • The attribution analysis compared observed cyclone behavior with climate‑neutral simulations.
  • Findings highlight growing vulnerability of tropical cyclones to warming oceans.
Source: The Hindu - Sci-Tech ↗
Environment

Proposed Siang Dam in Arunachal Pradesh

  • The Arunachal Pradesh government has approved a proposal to construct a hydro‑electric dam on the Siang River, the upstream stretch of the Brahmaputra.
  • The project is expected to harness the river's high hydraulic head to generate several thousand megawatts of power, contributing to the North‑East's energy deficit.
  • Environmental groups have raised concerns over potential displacement of indigenous communities, loss of biodiversity, and downstream flow reduction affecting Assam and Bangladesh.
  • The central Ministry of Power and the North Eastern Electric Power Corporation (NEEPCO) are likely to oversee funding and technical implementation.
Source: The Hindu - Sci-Tech ↗
Environment

The Amazon is no longer a carbon sink, it is an emitter

  • Recent satellite and ground observations show the Amazon rainforest released more CO2 than it absorbed in the latest assessment year.
  • Widespread deforestation, forest degradation and increased frequency of drought‑induced fires have weakened the forest's carbon uptake capacity.
  • The transition from a net carbon sink to a net carbon source adds to the global greenhouse gas burden and threatens India's climate commitments.
  • Scientists warn that continued loss of Amazonian biomass could create a feedback loop accelerating global warming.
Source: The Hindu - Sci-Tech ↗
Environment

Satellite imagery shows 73% reduction in Bhutan’s glacial lake after GLOF

  • A Noida-based geospatial intelligence firm used satellite data to assess the size of the supraglacial lake adjoining Sintaphu Tsho in Bhutan.
  • The lake, which was the source of a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) in 2016, has shrunk by about 73% compared to its pre‑flood extent.
  • Despite the reduction, the lake remains considerably larger than its 2016 size, indicating ongoing melt and water storage.
  • The study highlights the utility of remote sensing for real‑time monitoring of high‑altitude glacial hazards.
  • Findings are relevant for transboundary disaster preparedness between Bhutan and downstream Indian states.
Source: The Hindu - Sci-Tech ↗
Environment

Cyclone Murasu lashes Telangana with extremely heavy rains on November 4

  • Cyclone Murasu made landfall in Telangana on 4 November 2026, bringing torrential rainfall.
  • The Bhadradri district recorded the heaviest precipitation, leading to flash floods and waterlogging.
  • Local authorities activated emergency response teams and issued evacuation advisories for vulnerable areas.
  • Preliminary reports indicate damage to roads, agricultural fields, and residential structures.
Source: The Hindu - National ↗
Environment

APPCB seeks ₹36.17 crore compensation from ONGC over Mori-5 well blowout

  • The Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) issued a show‑cause notice to ONGC demanding ₹36.17 crore as compensation for environmental damage caused by the Mori‑5 well blowout.
  • The blowout occurred on 5 January 2026 at the Mori‑5 well in Irusumanda village, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema district, due to a gas leak.
  • APPCB has launched an investigation focusing on air and water pollution, groundwater contamination, and safety lapses, and has asked ONGC to submit a detailed remediation plan within a stipulated time.
  • Non‑compliance could lead to further legal action, including penalties under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act.
Source: The Hindu - National ↗
Environment

Strong El Niño episodes do not always cause deficient Indian monsoon rainfall

  • Since 1950, only seven Indian monsoon seasons coincided with a moderate or strong El Niño event.
  • Out of these seven, five seasons – including 2026 – recorded rainfall at least 10% below the long‑term average, classified as ‘deficient’ by the IMD.
  • The 2023 monsoon was an exception, delivering ‘below‑average’ rainfall rather than a full deficiency.
  • In 1997, despite a strong El Niño, the monsoon rainfall was close to the long‑term average.
  • These anomalies highlight that El Niño alone is not a deterministic factor for monsoon performance.
Source: The Hindu - Sci-Tech ↗
Environment

West Bengal’s first relocated tigress captured in Assam and returned to Buxa Tiger Reserve

  • A tigress, the first to be relocated under West Bengal's wildlife management programme, was found in Assam after moving from its original habitat in Buxa Tiger Reserve.
  • The animal was captured by forest officials in Assam's Jorhat district and immediately transported back to Buxa Tiger Reserve in Alipurduar.
  • The relocation, undertaken in 2023, aimed to reduce human‑tiger conflict and enhance genetic exchange between fragmented tiger populations.
  • The successful recapture underscores the challenges of monitoring translocated big cats and the need for robust GPS telemetry and inter‑state coordination.
Source: The Hindu - Sci-Tech ↗
Environment

WHO urged to review drinking water standards amid nitrate health fears

  • A joint letter from leading scientists and health experts has called on the WHO to revise its drinking‑water nitrate guideline.
  • Global surface‑water models estimate that several hundred million people are currently exposed to nitrate concentrations above the existing WHO limit.
  • Elevated nitrate intake is linked to health risks such as methemoglobinemia in infants and potential carcinogenic effects.
  • The current WHO guideline permits a maximum of 50 mg/L nitrate (as NO3-) in drinking water, a value many argue is outdated.
  • The letter urges the WHO to adopt stricter limits and to incorporate recent epidemiological evidence in its next review cycle.
Source: The Hindu - Sci-Tech ↗
Environment

Palluyir Trust Organises Tree‑Sketching Nature Walks in Chennai

  • Palluyir Trust conducts guided walks in Chennai’s parks where participants sketch individual trees.
  • The activity aims to foster close observation, encourage learning about tree species and their ecological roles.
  • Walks are free, open to the public and include brief talks on tree bark patterns, growth rings and local biodiversity.
  • Organisers hope the initiative will promote urban greening and citizen stewardship of green spaces.
Source: The Hindu - Sci-Tech ↗
Environment

PM addresses inauguration of India Renewable Energy Summit & Expo in Delhi

  • Prime Minister inaugurated the India Renewable Energy Summit & Expo, underscoring India's commitment to a clean‑energy transition.
  • Reiterated the national target of achieving 450 GW of renewable power capacity by 2030, with a major focus on solar, wind and hybrid projects.
  • Announced a new scheme to boost rooftop solar installations and a roadmap to develop 30 GW of green hydrogen capacity by 2030.
  • Stated that India had crossed 120 GW of cumulative renewable capacity as of March 2024, with solar contributing about 70 GW.
  • Called for enhanced private sector participation and an estimated $200+ billion investment to strengthen the Green Energy Corridor and grid integration.
Source: PIB India ↗
Environment

Cyclone Murasu makes landfall in Andhra Pradesh, districts on high alert

  • Cyclone Murasu intensified and made landfall in coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds.
  • Several thatched houses collapsed in Ongole, leaving residents stranded and prompting rescue operations.
  • District collectors coordinated with Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy to arrange simultaneous cyclone relief and local body election voting.
  • Multiple districts have been placed on high alert, with relief camps and emergency services mobilised.
  • Power outages and communication disruptions reported across the affected regions.
Source: The Hindu - National ↗
Environment

Cyclone Murasu makes landfall near Kothapatnam, Prakasam district with no power outages reported

  • Cyclone Murasu touched down near Kothapatnam in Prakasam district of Andhra Pradesh.
  • All major power lines remained functional; no electricity disruptions were reported.
  • District collectors briefed CM Chandrababu Naidu on the on‑ground situation and relief measures via teleconference.
  • State disaster response teams have been mobilised for evacuation, shelter provision and medical assistance.
  • Pre‑emptive measures, including reinforcement of power infrastructure, helped avoid outages.
Source: The Hindu - National ↗
Environment

Cyclone Murasu nears A.P. coast, heavy rain alert issued

  • The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a heavy rain alert for the Andhra Pradesh coast as Cyclone Murasu approaches.
  • The cyclone is expected to move with sustained wind speeds of 100 to 110 kmph.
  • Gusts could reach up to 120 kmph between the coastal districts of Nellore and Narasapur.
  • Authorities have been advised to activate disaster‑response protocols and warn residents.
Source: The Hindu - National ↗
Environment

Cyclone Murasu triggers red and orange alerts across Andhra Pradesh districts

  • A red alert has been issued for Tirupati, Nandyal and Palnadu districts for 3 November 2026.
  • An orange alert has been declared for eleven other districts in Andhra Pradesh.
  • The alerts were issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) as Cyclone Murasu approaches, bringing heavy rainfall.
  • Residents have been advised to avoid low‑lying areas, secure property and stay tuned to official warnings.
  • The state disaster management authority has deployed response teams and relief kits on standby.
Source: The Hindu - National ↗
Environment

Firecrackers: Festivity or Fallout?

  • The article asserts that religious freedom and the right to celebrate do not justify exposing others to undue health risks from firecrackers.
  • Firecrackers emit large quantities of particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10) and toxic gases, worsening respiratory conditions, especially among children, the elderly and asthmatics.
  • The Supreme Court and several state governments have imposed restrictions such as bans on loud crackers, time‑limits on usage, and prohibition of fireworks containing hazardous chemicals like lead and mercury.
  • Calls are made for responsible celebrations, promotion of eco‑friendly crackers, and stricter enforcement to curb environmental and health fallout.
Source: The Hindu - Sci-Tech ↗
Environment

Cyclone Murasu: Orange alert in six Telangana districts, yellow alert in five; schools and colleges closed in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh

  • The India Meteorological Department (IMD) placed Cyclone Murasu's centre about 350 km east of Chennai.
  • An orange weather alert was issued for six districts of Telangana, while five other districts received a yellow alert.
  • Schools and colleges in the affected districts of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh were declared holidays.
  • The cyclone was also positioned 400 km east‑southeast of Nellore, 430 km southeast of Machilipatnam, 420 km east‑southeast of Kavali, 450 km southeast of Ongole, and 520 km south of Visakhapatnam.
Source: The Hindu - National ↗
Environment

67th Foundation Day of National Zoological Park Observed with Awareness Activities and Bird Walk

  • The National Zoological Park (NZP) in New Delhi celebrated its 67th foundation day.
  • The event featured creative public awareness programmes focusing on wildlife conservation.
  • A guided bird walk was organised to educate visitors about avian species in the park.
  • Officials highlighted NZP's role in biodiversity preservation and environmental education.
  • The celebration underscored the need for increased public participation in conservation efforts.
Source: PIB India ↗
Environment

Water Board launches green tanker services to promote water conservation

  • State Water Board has introduced eco‑friendly tanker services termed "green tankers" for water distribution.
  • The initiative aims to curb wastage and promote efficient use of water resources in urban and peri‑urban areas.
  • Tankers are equipped with leak‑proof fittings and use low‑emission diesel or electric propulsion to reduce carbon footprint.
  • The Board targets a 15% reduction in per‑capita water consumption within the first year of operation.
Source: The Hindu - National ↗
Environment

Glacial Lake Outburst Flood in Bhutan damages infrastructure and triggers high alert in Assam

  • A glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) in Bhutan caused severe damage to local roads and washed away a bridge.
  • The downstream impact prompted the Assam state administration to place vulnerable revenue circles in Dhubri and Kokrajhar districts on high alert.
  • Authorities are monitoring river levels in the Brahmaputra basin as the floodwaters could spill over into Indian territory.
  • The incident underscores growing concerns over climate‑change‑driven glacial melt in the Himalayas.
Source: The Hindu - International ↗
Environment

Two arrested in connection with cheetah death; weapon suspected to be a traditional bharmar gun

  • Two individuals were taken into custody for allegedly shooting a cheetah in a forested area.
  • Investigators suspect the firearm used was a "bharmar gun", a single‑shot, muzzle‑loading smoothbore weapon common in rural and forest regions.
  • The bharmar gun has not yet been recovered or traced by authorities.
  • The incident highlights ongoing illegal wildlife hunting in the region.
Source: The Hindu - Sci-Tech ↗
Environment

4,000 Evacuated in West Bengal after Bhutan Glacial Lake Outburst Triggers Flood Alert

  • A glacial lake burst in Bhutan raised water levels in the trans‑border Sankosh river system.
  • West Bengal authorities issued a flood alert for the Sankosh river and its tributaries.
  • Around 4,000 residents from vulnerable villages were shifted to safety as a precaution.
  • The state government later reported that the situation had returned to normal.
  • The event underscores the increasing risk of climate‑induced glacial lake outbursts in the Himalayas.
Source: The Hindu - International ↗
Environment

Heat-related deaths rise 36% since Paris Agreement, Lancet report finds

  • A Lancet analysis involving 146 researchers from over 100 institutions in 30+ countries tracked 54 climate‑health indicators.
  • The study found a 36% increase in global heat‑related mortality since the 2015 Paris Agreement.
  • The rise is attributed to lagging climate‑action efforts despite the Agreement’s targets.
  • The report links higher temperatures to increased cardiovascular, respiratory, and renal deaths.
  • It calls for accelerated mitigation and adaptation measures to curb health impacts.
Source: The Hindu - Sci-Tech ↗
Environment

Forest panel rejects Uttarakhand HC's relocation plan, urges use of non‑forest land

  • Uttarakhand High Court had ordered relocation of a proposed project from forest land to an alternate site.
  • The Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) rejected the relocation plan, noting the new site also falls within forest land.
  • FAC directed the state government to identify a suitable non‑forest location before seeking forest clearance.
  • The decision reinforces compliance with the Forest Conservation Act, 1980 for any forest diversion.
Source: The Hindu - National ↗
Environment

MNRE launches ‘Special Campaign 6.0’ to accelerate e‑waste management

  • The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has inaugurated Special Campaign 6.0 aimed at speeding up e‑waste management across the country.
  • The campaign focuses on strengthening collection, recycling and safe disposal mechanisms, including setting up new e‑waste collection centres.
  • It seeks to create awareness through capacity‑building programmes and partnership with state governments, industry and NGOs.
  • The initiative aligns with the E‑waste Management Rules, 2016 and the broader circular‑economy objectives of the Government of India.
Source: PIB India ↗
Environment

Kerala High Court orders panel to negotiate compensation with MSC Elsa owners after marine pollution

  • The Liberian‑flagged container ship MSC Elsa sank off the coast of Kerala in December 2023, causing extensive marine and coastal pollution in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
  • The Kerala High Court directed the state‑appointed panel to resume negotiations with the ship's owners for assessing compensation and other related costs.
  • The panel will evaluate clean‑up expenses, loss of livelihood for fishermen, and ecological damage before recommending a settlement.
  • The order underscores the application of international maritime liability conventions in Indian courts.
Source: The Hindu - National ↗
Environment

Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Arnab makes landfall in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh

  • The India Meteorological Department (IMD) classified Arnab as a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm.
  • Arnab began landfall on the eastern coast, affecting both Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.
  • Heavy rainfall was reported as the northern spiral band moved further inland.
  • Coastal districts experienced flooding and strong winds, prompting evacuations.
  • State disaster response teams were activated to manage relief operations.
Source: The Hindu - National ↗