Wettest place in the world fears a shortage of water

Article Abstract:

Cherrapunji, Meghalaya, north-east India, used to have an average annual rainfall of 444.5 inches, but in the 1990s it is no longer the wettest place in the world. The fierce downpours have lessened and a drought is forecast in winter 1993. Water washes away because forests were felled from 1963-1993.The monsoon brings rain from Jun to Sep, when, according to the meteorolgical Centre in Fuwahati, Assam, there is still as much rain in Cherrapunji. Mawsynram, four miles away, has 468 inches a year.

Author: McGirk, Tim
Natural history, Rain and rainfall, Rain, Droughts

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Turned on by the Internet? Not the high priest of hi-tech

Article Abstract:

Society is now in danger of descending into 'information overload,' according to highly acclaimed science fiction writer Arthur C. Clarke. He now lives in relative isolation in Sri Lanka, but is still unable to escape the attention of fans who communicate through web sites on the Internet. He still discusses a wide range of advanced theories, but does not feel that there is a superior civilisation anywhere else in the universe.

Author: McGirk, Tim
Authors, Writers, Interview, Clarke, Arthur C.

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Shortage of vultures threatens ancient culture

Article Abstract:

The custom of the Parsee religious community in Bombay, India, of leaving dead bodies naked on the Tower of Silence for vultures to consume, may stop, as the reducing number of vultures is insufficient to completely remove the bodies. Slaughterhouses have been moved outside the city and the birds followed. Parsees believe the custom avoids polluting the sacred elements fire, air, water and earth.

Author: McGirk, Tim
Religion, Rites, ceremonies and celebrations, Religious aspects, Funerals, Burial, Vultures, Parsees, Zoroastrianism

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Subjects list: India
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