Thursday, June 19, 2008

Unidentified white particles on leaves

The Statesman, 19th June, 2008

Ash like whitish powder is accumulating over leaves of plants and vehicles running on roads or parked outside in different parts of Kalahandi, particularly in Bhawanipatna and its neighbouring areas for the past three days. It is coming through drizzling rain and is raising many questions in the minds of local people. In many places, the colour of plant leaves have changed from green to semi-white due to the accumulation of these unknown particles. Though the sky is thickly clouded now, there is only occasional drizzling rain. Experts suspect it may be due to settled dust particles in the atmosphere or acidic substances coming through rain water. Renowned botanist Mr Akshaya Nanda says that unless thoroughly investigated the cause cannot be pin pointed. If it is due to nitric acid or sulphuric acid that affects plants and human beings. The settlement of ash like dust along with rain water is heavy. Damage to plants is yet to be visually noticed despite being covered by the material. He further stated that it might be of some origin coming through low pressure cloud. "It needs thorough investigation," he noted. Many locals are confused not knowing what the matter is, since it is the first time such incidence has been noticed in the area.

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