The idyllic hill district of Nilgiris in Tamil Nadu is facing an unexpected weather challenge as temperatures plummet to near-zero degrees, an unusual climatic phenomenon causing widespread concerns. The lush green landscapes that characterize the region are now covered in frost, with dense fog severely limiting visibility. The adverse effects extend beyond daily life, impacting agricultural activities—a significant livelihood for the locals.

Residents in many parts of Nilgiris are resorting to bonfires to combat the bone-chilling cold. Official data indicates a significant drop in temperatures, with Kanthal and Thalaikuntha in Udhagamandalam recording a chilly 1 degree Celsius, Botanical Garden slightly higher at 2 degrees Celsius, and Sandynallah at 3 degrees Celsius.

Expressing worry over this ‘unseasonal’ cold spell, residents and environmental activists are attributing it to global warming and the El Niño effect. V Sivadas of the Nilgiri Environment Social Trust (NEST) emphasizes the need for a comprehensive study to understand the implications of this climatic shift on Nilgiris.

“The onset of the cold is delayed, and such a climatic change is a big challenge to Nilgiris, and a study should be conducted about this,” says Sivadas.

The adverse weather conditions are not only affecting daily life but also impacting key industries in the region, such as tea plantations. R Sukumaran, secretary of a local tea workers union, highlights the challenges faced by the tea industry, citing heavy rains in December and the subsequent cold period as detrimental to the tea plants. There are growing fears that this could lead to reduced production in the upcoming months.

Vegetable farmers are also feeling the impact of the unusual weather, with cabbages being particularly affected. Despite wearing appropriate attire, commuting on two-wheelers has become a health hazard, leading to difficulties in breathing, severe headaches, and fever.

As Nilgiris grapples with this unprecedented cold spell, a call for urgent attention to the climatic shifts and their consequences is resonating among the residents, urging authorities to address the potential long-term effects on the region’s ecology and livelihoods.

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