While every possible step is being taken to tackle the Coronavirus outbreak, it is surprising how the pandemic is affecting the environment in more ways than one. As Ranchi continues to be under the 21- day lockdown, one of the positive effects of this has been the tremendous reduction in the pollution levels.
“The quality of air has drastically improved and there are no dust particles present at the moment. The primary reason behind this is not too difficult to understand. Presently, there are almost no vehicles on the roads and all factories are also closed. Hence pollution levels have vastly decreased. The atmosphere is also free of poisonous gases like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and nitrous oxide. This will surely have a very positive effect on everyone’s health,”said Environmentalist and Assistant Professor, Department of Geology Ranchi University, Dr Nitish Priyadarshi.
In spite of the mercury levels gradually increasing, thousands of migratory birds can still be seen flocking around the water bodies in the State capital. The birds which travel from the far away land of Siberia in search of food and protection from the bitter cold, generally visit this region from the months of November to February.
“It is the second week of April and surprisingly these birds are still here where as they would latest fly off by March. These winged beauties can be seen around Kanke Dam and Bada Talab. The birds are here because there is absolutely no human interference and they are not being poached at the moment. The other reason being that the birds are in their natural habitat and are feeding on their natural vegetation in the water bodies. The birds will surely go back to their homeland but presently they seem to be enjoying the solitude and the pleasing weather conditions,” added Priyadarshi.
With the imposed lockdown and lack of air, noise and light pollution, this is also the ideal time to stargaze. With bright blue skies during the day, numerous stars and constellations can be seen at night.
“Right now there is no pollution in the environment and hence the visibility has also increased. Numerous constellations like the Saptarishi or the Ursa Major, Rohini Nakshatra and the pole star are all clearly visible. Nature can be seen in its true colours. Just like the planet and Mother Nature are healing itself, this is also greatly affecting human health. With everyone house bound, people have a lot of to look after their individual health and food habits” he added.