Welcome to SaralStudy’s Weekly Current Affairs roundup for the week of 10th March to 16th March. This week witnessed several noteworthy events shaping the political, economic, and scientific landscapes globally and nationally. From major government announcements and international developments to achievements in sports, technology, and culture, we’ve compiled all the essential updates to help you stay informed.
Weekly Current Affairs – 10 March to 16 March
Whether you’re preparing for competitive exams or just want to stay updated with the latest happenings, this comprehensive summary has got you covered. Dive in and keep yourself ahead with the key highlights of this week!
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1. Hantavirus
Recently, Hantavirus has made headlines once again when it caused the death of Gene Hackman’s wife, Betsy Arakawa. Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) is a serious and rare infectious disease that spreads primarily through rodents. In this article, we will discuss hantavirus in detail, including its symptoms, transmission, treatment and common questions.
About Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome
Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome is a rare infectious disease that begins with flu-like symptoms and can rapidly develop into a severe illness. The disease is caused by various strains of hantavirus, which can cause life-threatening lung and heart problems.
Symptoms
Hantavirus symptoms often begin with fatigue, fever, and muscle aches. Next, headache, dizziness, chills, and stomach problems may develop. If respiratory symptoms develop, the mortality rate is about 38%.
Transmission
Hantavirus is mainly spread by rodents such as mice and rats. It does not spread from person to person. Infection usually occurs by inhaling the airborne hantavirus from rodent urine, feces or saliva.
Although it is rare, it can also spread through rodent bites or scratches. Therefore, it is important that people avoid coming in contact with rodents and take care of the cleanliness of their surroundings.
Treatment
There is no specific treatment for hantavirus infection. However, early medical assistance can help if a serious disease develops. If a person experiences symptoms of hantavirus, they should seek medical help immediately.
Prevention Measures to Prevent Hantavirus
Some important measures to prevent Hantavirus are:
Avoid rodents: Keep your home and surrounding area clean so that rodents cannot come.
Safe food: Keep food in a safe place and do not leave it in the open.
Cleaning: Wear gloves and use a mask while cleaning rodent urine and feces.
Professional help: If there is a rodent problem in your area, seek professional help.
Frequently Asked Questions Related to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome
Question 1: Is hantavirus disease curable?
Answer: There is no specific treatment for hantavirus infection.
Question 2: Is hantavirus pulmonary syndrome a zoonotic disease?
Answer: Yes, Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a zoonotic disease, which means it can spread from animals to humans.
Question 3: What is the incubation period of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome?
Answer: The incubation period of HPS is 9 to 33 days, with the average being 14-17 days.
2. Sharavati Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project
The Sharavati Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project (PSHP) in Karnataka is an important power project based on the Sharavati River. The project is not only a major source of energy generation for the state but its environmental impact and corruption allegations have also been a topic of discussion. In this article, we will discuss various aspects of the project, including its features, environmental concerns and corruption allegations .
About Sharavati Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project
The Sharavati Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project is a pumped storage power project on the Sharavati River in Karnataka. The project is the largest pumped storage power generation unit in the country with a total power generation capacity of 2000 MW.
Project Features
- Reservoir: The project will be built between two existing reservoirs. The Talakala Dam, which is 62.48 m high, will be the upper reservoir, while the Gerusoppa Dam, which is about 64 m high, will be the lower reservoir.
- Water Management: Water will be pumped upstream using grid power during off-season and released down to generate electricity during peak demand.
- Drinking Water Supply : The project also aims to supply drinking water to Bengaluru which adds to its importance.
- Important Structures: The project consists of five tunnels and eight pumping stations which are essential for its operation .
Key Facts About Sharavati River
Sharavati River is located in the western region of Karnataka and is one of the few rivers in India that flows in the west direction .
River Course
- Origin: The river originates in the Western Ghats and flows in the northwest direction to merge into the Arabian Sea at Honnavar in Uttara Kannada district.
- Length: The length of the river is 128 km, and its basin covers 2,985 sq km.
- Waterfalls: The Sharavati Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in India, comes in the course of the river, where it falls from a height of 253 meters.
Major Tributaries
The major tributaries of the Sharavati River are: Nandihole, Haridravathi, Mavinhole, Hilakunji, Yennehole, Hurlihole and Nagodihole.
Environmental Concerns
The construction of the Sharavati Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project may have several negative impacts on the environment.
- Ecological Damage: Land use change and construction of reservoirs for the project may affect the local ecosystem.
- Climate Change: Construction of reservoirs may exacerbate the effects of climate change, leading to changes in the local climate .
- Impact on Local Communities : The lifestyle and resources of local communities may also be negatively affected due to the project .
Allegations of Corruption
Allegations of corruption have also surfaced in connection with the Sharavati Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project .
- Irregularities : There have been allegations of irregularities in the project contracts and tenders, raising doubts about whether the correct procedure has been followed .
- Involvement of local leaders : Some local leaders are alleged to have misused their position for the benefit of the project , leading to corruption .
- Need for investigation : Given the gravity of these allegations, there is a need for an independent investigation to ensure transparency and take action against the guilty .
Conclusion
The Sharavati Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project in Karnataka is an important energy source but its environmental impact and corruption allegations are serious concerns .
Need for balance: It is necessary to balance the pros and cons of the project so as to minimise its impact on the environment and local communities.
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