SHILLONG: In view of the changing climatic conditions and with global warming becoming one of the most significant topics discussed around the world, a programme on Climate Change Adaptation was held at Pine Wood Hotel here on Saturday.
The programme was chaired by Ferlin Sangma, Chairperson of the Meghalaya State Council for Climate Change and Sustainable Development (MSCCC&SD) and attended by all state legislators to discuss the pressing concerns of climate change, shifting weather patterns and strengthen the state’s capacity at catalysing climate change adaptation resources and inclusive development planning to sync with the sustainable development goals (SDGs) of the United Nations.
Speaking as the chief guest at the event, Chief minster Conrad Sangma stated that the idea behind the programme is to make each one recognise the impending ramifications of climate change which can threaten food production and increase the risk of calamitous flooding.
He urged the legislators present at the programme to ensure that this matter is kept in mind with every action taken and every decision made, and as leaders, they should seek to inspire people by setting example such as choosing to walk to office once a week, doing away with plastic bottles and encouraging large scale participation at climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts.
Sangma also urged Ferlin Sangma to organise similar initiatives at different levels so that complete clarity is gained by all stakeholders.
Thomas Sangma, advisor to the government, raised concerns about the imminent migration from neighbouring countries due to the political and social impacts of climate change, and stressed on the need to have research and serious discussions on the issue.
Such environmental refugees may look to come to Meghalaya for shelter, and the state can potentially be overwhelmed.
Measures may have to be outlined to ensure that this type of situation is avoided, he added.
Mawsynram MLA H M Shangpliang spoke on the changes in the rainfall pattern in Mawsynram, the wettest place on Earth and the all time low production of oranges and honey in the area which is indicative of climate change going on and the need to address these issues.
There were also technical presentation on climate change by prominent and experts during the programme.
The programme was organised by the Meghalaya Climate Change Centre (MCCC) of the Meghalaya Basin Development Authority, in collaboration with the Integrated Mountain Initiative (IMI) and the Indian Himalayas Climate Adaptation Programme (IHCAP).
