Rising Sea Levels Threaten Major Indian Coastal Cities by 2040

A new study by CSTEP warns that over 10% of land in Mumbai and up to 10% in Panaji and Chennai will face inundation by 2040 due to climate change-induced sea-level rise. The report analyzed historical and future climate scenarios in 15 Indian coastal cities, indicating severe risks to biodiversity, agriculture, and tourism.

A new study by the Center for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP) reveals that over 10 per cent of land in Mumbai and up to 10 per cent in Panaji and Chennai will be at risk of inundation by 2040 due to rising sea levels caused by climate change.

The research, titled "Sea level rise scenarios and inundation maps for selected Indian coastal cities," assessed sea-level changes in 15 Indian coastal cities including Mumbai, Chennai, and Panaji. Findings indicate significant threats to biodiversity, agriculture, and tourism.

The report showed that Mumbai has experienced the highest rise in sea levels, followed by Haldia and Visakhapatnam. By the end of the century, sea levels could rise by as much as 76.2 cm in Mumbai and similarly alarming levels in other coastal cities.

(With inputs from agencies.)