Explanation: Declared the National Aquatic Animal, the Ganges Dolphin is a keystone species for river ecosystems. Found in rivers like Ganga and Ghaghara, its population is under threat due to pollution, damming, and fishing. Uttar Pradesh has dolphin sanctuaries to protect them.

Terai forests are rich in sal, teak, and bamboo, with a high water table and biodiversity. These moist deciduous forests support large mammals like tigers and elephants. Conservation is challenged by encroachment and illegal logging

Explanation: The 594 km Ganga Expressway is expected to impact wetlands, wildlife corridors, and prime agricultural areas. Environmentalists have warned about groundwater depletion and habitat fragmentation. Public hearings and EIA compliance are crucial steps.

Explanation: Originating in the Himalayas, the Ghaghara River floods annually during the monsoon and glacial melt, especially affecting districts like Barabanki and Bahraich. The government is investing in embankments and early warning systems to mitigate disasters.

Explanation: The UPPCB is tasked with enforcing environmental laws related to air and water quality, industrial effluents, and noise pollution. It issues consents to operate and monitors emissions. The board plays a regulatory as well as advisory role.

Explanation: Gorakhpur has integrated climate-resilient infrastructure under the Smart Cities Mission. The city focuses on urban wetlands, green mobility, and flood-resistant planning. Its work is also supported by global climate resilience networks.

Explanation: Under the net metering policy, consumers with rooftop solar setups in UP can send surplus power back to the grid and receive credits. This incentivizes green energy and reduces load on the conventional power supply. It's a key strategy in promoting renewable adoption.

Explanation: Kanpur’s leather tanneries discharge chromium and other pollutants into the Ganga, severely degrading water quality. Despite Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs), untreated waste often leaks into the river. This has harmed aquatic life and human health downstream.

Explanation: The Kachhua Sanctuary in Varanasi is dedicated to the conservation of turtles that help clean the Ganga by feeding on organic waste. It plays a critical role in the Ganga Action Plan. However, recent infrastructure developments have threatened its continuity.

Explanation: Jhansi and nearby areas in Bundelkhand experience acute soil erosion due to deforestation, poor rainfall, and overgrazing. Loss of topsoil reduces fertility and worsens drought. Watershed development and afforestation projects are key remedies being applied.

Explanation: The Vindhya Range harbors dry deciduous forests, medicinal plants, and many endemic species. It also forms a watershed for rivers like Son and Tons. Overgrazing and mining have degraded parts of this sensitive zone.

Explanation: Ghaziabad often ranks among the most polluted cities globally due to vehicular emissions, construction dust, and industrial discharge. Its PM2.5 levels frequently breach safe limits. Government initiatives like GRAP and AQI monitoring are being implemented here.

Explanation: Keetham Lake, also known as Sur Sarovar, near Agra, is a Ramsar site recognized for its ecological importance. It attracts migratory birds and supports fish, turtles, and aquatic plants. Pollution and encroachment remain concerns for its conservation.

Dudhwa Tiger Reserve lies in the Terai region, bordering Nepal. It consists of Dudhwa National Park, Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary, and Katarniaghat Sanctuary. The moist deciduous forest and grasslands provide ideal habitats for tigers, rhinos, and swamp deer.