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| Image source: India Biodiversity Portal |
When I moved to Bengaluru from Hyderabad in 1999, the invasive weed known as parthenium (Parthenium hysterophorus) was very much on my mind.
I was a bit sceptical about my health, having heard that many people living in the city suffered from allergies caused by the weed.
Parthenium is said to be widespread across Bengaluru, thriving in vacant lots, along roadsides, and in open spaces.
Thankfully, I didn’t experience any problems myself, but I’ve heard of many people developing allergies, particularly during certain seasons.
Typical symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, and breathing difficulties. Some people also suffer from dermatitis, characterised by itching, redness, and rashes.
The only real alternative is to limit one’s exposure — staying indoors during high pollen seasons and avoiding areas with dense parthenium growth can help.
Apart from Bengaluru, major cities and regions across northern, central, southern, and northeastern India are also affected by widespread infestation.
These include Delhi, Chandigarh, Hyderabad, and Rishikesh, as well as many urban and rural areas in states like Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Bihar.
CONGRESS GRASS
This weed is locally known as "Congress grass" — a name with an interesting, though somewhat debated, origin.
The plant is said to have become widespread in India around the time the Indian National Congress was in power, during the 1950s and 1960s.
Native to Central and South America, it is believed to have entered India accidentally through wheat imports from the United States under the PL-480 food aid programme.
Since this coincided with Congress rule, the public associated the weed with the party, reinforcing the nickname.
It’s also known by other names, such as "Carrot grass", due to its leaves resembling those of the carrot plant, and "Gajar ghas" in Hindi.
ARE THEY STILL AROUND?
Nowadays, I don't hear so much about parthenium. The weed might not be as widespread as it used to be since many vacant areas have turned into office spaces, commercial buildings, houses, and apartment complexes.
(This post is part of the A to Z Challenge. The theme is environment)
Hari OM
ReplyDeleteInteresting one... YAM xx
Invasive species that many people are allergic to? What a nightmare.
ReplyDeleteHi Pradeep - this sounds an interesting 'weed' ... it seems that some type of beetles can help control it ... cheers Hilary
ReplyDeleteThat's such an interesting read. Bangalore's allergies are well known but I didn't know this weed was one of the contributors.
ReplyDeleteI have never heard of this
ReplyDelete