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By:

Asha Tripathi

14 April 2025 at 1:35:28 pm

Why the Monsoon Is Changing

The delayed monsoon is a reminder that the choices we make today about development and the environment will shape the climate inherited by future generations. Mumbai is experiencing an unusually delayed monsoon this year, accompanied by prolonged spells of extreme heat and humidity. Across many parts of India, rainfall patterns have become increasingly erratic. While some regions receive intense cloudbursts, others face long dry spells. This raises an important question: Are human activities...

Why the Monsoon Is Changing

The delayed monsoon is a reminder that the choices we make today about development and the environment will shape the climate inherited by future generations. Mumbai is experiencing an unusually delayed monsoon this year, accompanied by prolonged spells of extreme heat and humidity. Across many parts of India, rainfall patterns have become increasingly erratic. While some regions receive intense cloudbursts, others face long dry spells. This raises an important question: Are human activities disturbing nature's natural balance? Scientists explain that no single factor is responsible for changes in the monsoon. Natural climate variations play a role, but human-induced climate change, rapid urbanisation, deforestation and pollution are increasingly influencing weather patterns. Rising global temperatures warm both the oceans and the atmosphere, altering the movement of moisture-laden winds that drive the Indian monsoon. At the same time, expanding cities replace forests and open land with concrete, creating "urban heat islands" that trap heat, reduce natural cooling and influence local weather patterns. Trees are among nature's greatest climate protectors. They absorb carbon dioxide, release oxygen, cool the environment through evaporation and help maintain the water cycle. They also improve soil quality, support biodiversity and reduce the effects of rising temperatures. When forests are cleared for roads, buildings or industries without adequate replanting, the ecosystem becomes weaker. Wildlife loses habitat, groundwater recharge declines and local temperatures rise. However, development and environmental conservation do not have to be opposing goals. India needs progress, but that progress must be sustainable. Cities can continue to grow while protecting the natural systems that support life and ensure long-term environmental resilience. What Can Be Done? Protecting the environment requires action from governments, industries and citizens alike. Existing forests must be protected while expanding native tree plantation drives, and every major infrastructure project should include adequate compensatory green spaces to offset environmental loss. Cities can reduce rising temperatures by developing more urban forests, parks and green belts. Rooftop gardens and vertical greenery can also help cool buildings, improve air quality and make urban spaces more resilient to rising temperatures. Water conservation is equally important. Rainwater harvesting, together with the restoration of lakes, rivers and wetlands, helps replenish groundwater, strengthens local ecosystems and improves water security during dry periods. Reducing pollution must also remain a priority. Greater use of public transport, cycling, electric vehicles and renewable energy sources such as solar and wind can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve urban air quality. Shared Responsibility Finally, individuals and communities have an important role to play. Reducing plastic waste, recycling responsibly and encouraging schools, housing societies and local organisations to participate in conservation efforts can create lasting environmental change. Even small everyday actions, when adopted by millions of people, can have a meaningful collective impact. The delayed monsoon is more than an unusual weather event—it is a reminder that human wellbeing depends on a healthy environment. The choices made today about forests, cities, energy and water will determine whether future generations inherit predictable seasons or a climate marked by increasing uncertainty. Sustainable development is no longer just an environmental ideal; it is an economic and social necessity. Progress is essential, but true progress is measured not only by taller buildings and wider roads—it is also measured by our ability to protect natural resources and leave behind a greener, healthier planet for future generations. (The writer is a tutor based in Thane. Views personal.)

Bad Roads, Ugly Politics


The pathetic state of roads in Mumbai city as well as its suburbs has made daily commute a dangerous affair. The residents are miffed with the BMC over its lackadaisical attitude. Mumbaikars tweet photos, post videos to grab attention, but everything is in vain. Who cares for the common people. Backbreaking journeys have become part and parcel of life. Political leaders are busy mud-slinging.


This year the monsoon took a break after almost four and half months. During this time some of the roads virtually became non commutable. It may be recalled that the Chief Minister Eknath Shinde first announced to make Mumbai roads pothole free.


Its almost two years now the BMC has concretised only 9 percent of roads it planned to concretise. This decision was taken when it came to light that due to the properties of bitumen in asphalt roads, potholes are a regular occurrence due to contact with water during monsoons.


Hence, to solve the problem of potholes, the corporation has adopted a policy of cement concreting of 6-meter-wide roads in phases. The decision was taken but the dilly-dallying affair made things more difficult.


Mumbai’s traffic does put a lot of strain on roads which is not the case in the other developed countries. Second most important aspect is concretisation of roads is done partly and in phases.


The worst problem which is faced is repeated digging for cables and drainage, which weakens the roads. Above all corruption in BMC makes matters worse as a result everything comes to grinding halt.


According to experts, repairing potholes is a reaction with symptomatic treatment. By and large we are dispensing superficial treatment without addressing the root cause. The long-term solution will be to have roads with no potholes but what we need is the means and technology to achieve this. But for this political will is necessary which we lack on every step.


Mumbaikar’s are convience that corruption in the municipal corporation is the main reason. Contractors have had a monopoly over the last 20 years and this is the reason why reputed companies never come ahead for these projects.


As a result, in the name of attendance and repair, the BMC does shoddy work. Crores are spent but the end result is nothing. The BMC is not paying attention to the crust. If the crust is weak, potholes will see an increase. Without any thought or technical know-how, potholes are filled with cold mix.


This is the reason why the city and suburbs continue to have craters on the roads.


Craters, a serious threat to the safety and security of people. Mumbaikars fade up from their repeated visits to orthopedic surgeons.


They are in a mood to teach a proper lesson to those who were at the helm of the affairs.

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