Question.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change( IPCC) has predicted a global sea level rise of about one meter by AD 2100. What would be its impact on India and the other countries in the Indian Ocean region?
(UPSC 2023 General Studies Paper 3 (Main) Exam, Answer in 150 words)
Answer.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change( IPCC) is a United Nations body, which was established in 1988 to address climate change. It presented its sixth Assessment report, this report predicted a global sea level rise of about one meter by AD 2100.
Climate change is a real problem in the world, it leads to the melting of polar glaciers and sea level rises. The following are potential consequences of global sea level rises in the Indian Ocean region:
Coastal Flooding and loss of land:
Low-lying coastal areas in India, Bangladesh, and other Indian Ocean countries would be at increased risk of flooding and erosion, leading to the displacement of communities and loss of agricultural land.
Saltwater Intrusion:
Sea level rises lead to saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources and agricultural land. That would affect drinking water supplies and food security.
Coastal Infrastructure:
Ports, roads, and buildings in Coastal areas could be damaged due to increasing storms and erosion, leading to economic losses and disruptions.
Major coastal cities of India like Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai would face major damage to coastal infrastructure.
Loss of Biodiversity and Habitat:
Coastal ecosystems, such as mangroves and coral reefs, could adversely affect, and impact marine biodiversity and fisheries.
Threat to Islands:
Small island nations in the Indian Ocean, such as the Maldives and Seychelles, are particularly prone to submerging, facing the risk of submergence and loss of territory.
Climate Refugees:
The displacement of people due to sea level rise could contribute to climate-induced migration and potentially lead to climate refugees".
In summary, global sea level rise is a major challenge to the world. To address these challenges, adaptation strategies would be essential, including the construction of resilient infrastructure, coastal protection measures, sustainable land-use planning, and international cooperation to mitigate climate change.
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