A two-decade satellite analysis shows a gradual decline in Uttarakhand’s Himalayan vegetation, highlighting growing climate stress, pollution impacts, and ecological risks to fragile mountain ecosystems.

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• Satellite data from 2001 to 2022 indicate a steady decline in vegetation cover across Uttarakhand’s Himalayan regions despite normal seasonal revival after monsoon months.

• Researchers found that traditional vegetation cycles—strengthening post-monsoon and weakening before it—are increasingly disrupted due to climate change and environmental pressures.

• The study was conducted by ARIES, Nainital, under the Department of Science and Technology, with national and international collaborators.

• Scientists used Google Earth Engine to analyse long-term satellite data through NDVI and EVI indices measuring plant health, density, and biomass sensitivity.

• Findings revealed consistent seasonal peaks after monsoon and lowest vegetation health before monsoon, but an overall declining trend over two decades.

• Key drivers of decline include deforestation, agricultural expansion, illegal logging, and rising urban-industrial pollution affecting specific high-stress zones unevenly.

• Researchers warned that vegetation loss threatens biodiversity, groundwater recharge, river systems, and broader Himalayan ecological stability impacting downstream populations.

• The study emphasised satellite monitoring as an early-warning tool to help policymakers identify vulnerable regions and implement timely conservation measures.