How do dam infrastructure projects drive deforestation in the Central Cardamoms?

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Dam infrastructure projects are a significant driver of deforestation in the Central Cardamoms.

Infrastructure projects, particularly those involving dam construction, contribute to forest loss in the Central Cardamoms region. Data from Global Forest Watch indicates that nearly 7,000 hectares of tree cover have been lost in the Central Cardamom protected region over the past five years, with government-backed infrastructure projects cited as a contributing factor.
Land Clearing and Associated Infrastructure

The construction of dams necessitates significant land clearing not only for the dam site itself but also for associated infrastructure. This includes the development of access roads, which are essential for transporting materials and personnel. Furthermore, temporary or permanent housing for construction workers and other support facilities are often established within or adjacent to forested areas, leading to direct removal of tree cover.
Habitat Fragmentation and Increased Human Access

The development of new roads and infrastructure associated with dam projects can fragment existing habitats, disrupting wildlife corridors and isolating populations. These roads also significantly increase human access to previously remote forested areas. This enhanced access can, in turn, facilitate illegal logging activities and encourage agricultural encroachment by local communities or external groups seeking to exploit newly accessible land.
Altered Hydrological Systems and Potential Flooding

Dam construction fundamentally alters natural hydrological systems. The creation of reservoirs behind dams leads to the inundation of large areas of forest, directly destroying ecosystems. Changes in water flow downstream can also impact the health and survival of riparian forests, while the altered water regime might increase the susceptibility of certain forest types to disease or stress.

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How do dam infrastructure projects drive deforestation in the Central Cardamoms?

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