Himalayan Dilemma

`This is an important book that deserves to be read by everyone concerned with presenting major environmental issues in a realistic and honest way.' - Geography`An important book which should be read by anyone who is concerned for environmental issues...an essential text for policy makers and aid professionals, as well as for students of environmental studies and international development...a beautifully produced book, a real tribute to the art of the book maker. The clean, easy to read text is complemented by excellent photographs and figures. It is indeed, a book appropriate to the urgent and critical issues which it addresses.' - Journal of Environmental Management`This book is an excellent model for integrated and interdisciplinary approach for understanding mountain problems at Himalayan scale. A comprehensive reference list is included. Maps, diagrams and photographs enhance the book's topical importance.' - National Geographical Journal of India`Through its clarity of approach, width of subject matter and its undeniable topical interest, this highly geographical book will be enjoyed by a wide readership, ranging from conservationists, foresters and geomorphologists to planners and politicians.' - Earth Surface Processes and Landforms

• 1. The Theory of Himalayan Environmental Degradation: what is the nature of the perceived crisis? 2. The Himalayan Region: a geographical overview 3. When did Deforestation Occur? An historical perspective on Himalayan forestcover changes 4. Perceived Pressures on the Himalayan Forests and Their Role as Environmental Shield 5. Mountain Slope Instability: natural processes or human intervention? 6. The Himalayan-Lowland Interactive System: do land-use changes in the mountains affect the plains? 7. The Human Dimension: what are the facts? 8. Two Approaches to the Population Pressure - land productivity decline problem in the Himalaya 9. Crisis, Pseudo-crisis, or Supercrisis? 10. Research Strategy for the Himalayan Region