Impact of Land Use Change in Buhana Tehsil on the Environment
Bishnoi, Sarita1 and Chand, Prem2
1Assistant Professor Geography, Govt P G College sector-1, Panchkula
2Associate Professor, IEC University, Himachal Pradesh
Abstract
This study investigates the environmental impacts of land use change in Buhana Tehsil, Rajasthan, driven primarily by agricultural expansion, urbanization, industrialization, and poor land management practices. Agricultural activities, including monocropping and improper irrigation, have led to soil degradation, erosion, and salinization, while urbanization has resulted in significant deforestation, habitat loss, and microclimate alterations. Industrial growth has exacerbated air, water, and soil pollution, contributing to health risks and ecological imbalances. Water resource depletion, caused by groundwater over-extraction and the diversion of surface water, further strains the region’s arid ecosystem. The study highlights the severe consequences of habitat fragmentation and biodiversity loss, as natural areas are converted into agricultural and urban zones, fostering the spread of invasive species. Additionally, land degradation and overgrazing accelerate desertification, undermining soil productivity. These environmental changes have critical socio-economic ramifications, including community displacement, declining agricultural productivity, and worsening public health outcomes. This research underscores the urgent need for sustainable land use practices, including soil and water conservation, green infrastructure development, and biodiversity preservation. Implementing effective policies to mitigate land degradation, conserve water resources, and reduce carbon emissions is essential for ensuring environmental sustainability and enhancing community resilience in Bhuana Tehsil.
Keywords: Environment, ecosystem, over-extraction, ramifications, biodiversity.
Impact Statement
The changing patterns of land use in Buhana Tehsil, located in the semi-arid region of Rajasthan, have had profound and multifaceted impacts on the local environment. Over the past few decades, the conversion of agricultural land to residential, commercial, and industrial uses has significantly altered the ecological balance of the region. Rapid urbanization, expansion of road networks, and intensive farming practices have contributed to the depletion of natural vegetation, loss of biodiversity, and increasing soil degradation.
One of the most critical environmental consequences has been the reduction in groundwater recharge due to the shrinkage of traditional water bodies, encroachment on catchment areas, and the increased use of borewells for irrigation. This has led to a sharp decline in groundwater levels, further aggravating the region’s water scarcity. Moreover, the excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in newly cultivated areas has caused soil contamination and disrupted the microbial balance, leading to declining soil fertility and productivity over time.
Additionally, deforestation and land clearing have increased the vulnerability of the area to climate change impacts, such as rising temperatures and erratic rainfall. These shifts not only threaten agricultural sustainability but also affect the livelihoods of the local farming community, leading to socio-economic challenges. Overall, land use change in Buhana Tehsil has had a cascading effect on the environment, underscoring the need for sustainable land management policies, reforestation efforts, water conservation strategies, and community-based planning. Without immediate and coordinated action, the ecological degradation in the region could become irreversible, threatening both the environment and the well-being of future generations.
About Author
Sarita Bishnoi working in Govt. College of Haryana for the last 13 years and presented many research paper in International conferences, national seminars, also published some book chapters. Published a research paper on topic :- “ Impact of PCOS on Mental Health and Well-being of Women: A Review” In Change Management: An International Journal ISSN:2327-798X (2022) Published a Research Paper on the topic:- Technological innovation and the escalating need for cyber security education
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