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The Deccan Traps are one of the largest volcanic provinces in the world, known for their unique geological, environmental, and historical significance. Formed by massive volcanic eruptions over 60 million years ago, these layered basaltic formations cover a large part of west-central India, contributing to its rich soil, terrain, and biodiversity. Understanding the Deccan Traps is essential for UPSC aspirants studying geography, geology, and environmental science, as they influence not only the physical landscape but also agriculture and water resources.
The Deccan Traps were formed by intense volcanic activity during the Cretaceous-Paleogene (K-Pg) extinction event about 66 million years ago. These eruptions lasted for thousands of years, spreading lava across vast areas, leading to the creation of layered basaltic plateaus. This event is considered one of the largest volcanic eruptions in Earth’s history, contributing to significant changes in climate and possibly playing a role in the extinction of the dinosaurs.
The Deccan volcanic activity was likely triggered by the movement of the Indian Plate over a hotspot, releasing vast amounts of magma to the surface. The total volume of lava emitted is estimated at over 500,000 cubic kilometers, creating a vast volcanic plateau known today as the Deccan Traps. The term “Traps” comes from the Swedish word “trappa,” meaning steps, as the landscape appears like a series of terraces or steps.
The Deccan Traps are primarily composed of basalt, a dark, fine-grained igneous rock that cooled from the molten lava. Over millions of years, the eruptions formed layer upon layer of basalt rock, giving rise to its characteristic stepped landscape. Some key geological features include:
Layered Basaltic Rock
The Deccan Traps consist of numerous layers of solidified lava. These layers are hundreds of meters thick and cover an area of approximately 500,000 square kilometers, extending across parts of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, and Telangana.
Volcanic Landforms
Volcanic cones, plateaus, ridges, and valleys dominate the landscape. Some of the notable landforms include the Western Ghats and Satpura ranges, both of which are remnants of the Deccan Traps.
Fossil Evidence
Fossils of flora and fauna from the Cretaceous period have been found in the Deccan Traps, offering insight into the life forms that existed before and after the mass extinction event.
Laterite Formation
Over time, weathering of the basalt rock has resulted in the formation of laterite soil, which is rich in iron and aluminum. This soil type is common in the Deccan Plateau region and supports agricultural activities, especially in states like Maharashtra and Karnataka.
The Deccan Traps extend across large parts of western and central India. The major states covered include:
The Deccan Traps also form part of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystem.
The Deccan volcanic activity is believed to have had a global impact on climate, contributing to the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction. Massive eruptions released large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and other gases into the atmosphere, leading to:
Global Cooling
The volcanic eruptions caused a temporary cooling of the Earth’s climate. The release of SO₂ into the atmosphere likely led to the formation of sulfate aerosols, which blocked sunlight and resulted in a “volcanic winter.” This drastic cooling may have contributed to the extinction of many species, including the dinosaurs.
Greenhouse Effect
Over time, the massive release of CO₂ contributed to a long-term warming of the Earth’s climate. This greenhouse effect may have caused significant climatic shifts, affecting ecosystems worldwide.
Ocean Acidification
The volcanic emissions might have caused ocean acidification, which would have severely affected marine life, especially those reliant on calcium carbonate, such as corals and shellfish.
The Deccan Traps have an enormous economic impact due to their geological features:
Fertile Soil
The weathered basalt of the Deccan Traps has given rise to rich black soil or regur, which is ideal for cotton cultivation. This fertile soil supports a significant portion of India’s agricultural economy, especially in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat.
Mineral Resources
The Deccan region is rich in minerals such as iron ore, manganese, and bauxite, which are essential for India’s industrial sector.
Water Resources
The porous nature of basalt helps in water retention, making the Deccan region an important source of groundwater. Rivers like the Godavari, Krishna, and Tapti originate in the Deccan Plateau, supporting irrigation and providing water to millions.
Tourism
The unique landscape, including the Western Ghats, has made the Deccan Traps a hub for ecotourism. Hill stations like Mahabaleshwar, Lonavala, and Panchgani attract numerous visitors.
India’s approach to cyclone management involves several key strategies:
The Deccan Traps represent a critical part of India’s geological and environmental history. The ancient volcanic activity that created this vast plateau has left a lasting impact on the region’s geography, climate, and economy. For UPSC aspirants, understanding the Deccan Traps is important not just from a geological perspective, but also in terms of its influence on agriculture, water resources, and biodiversity.
The study of the Deccan Traps offers insights into broader themes of climate change, extinction events, and the dynamic nature of Earth’s surface. Their unique landscape and economic significance make them a vital topic for the UPSC syllabus.
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