GS Question

Climate change will have significant impacts on India, affecting both the Himalayan region and the coastal states.

Himalayan States:

1. Glacier Retreat: The Himalayan glaciers are melting at an accelerated rate, leading to the formation of glacial lakes and increased risk of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). This poses a threat to the communities residing downstream.

2. Water Scarcity: The reduction in glacier meltwater will impact water availability, particularly affecting communities dependent on this water for irrigation, drinking, and hydropower.

3. Increased Landslides: As temperatures rise, the stability of the steep slopes in the Himalayas is compromised, leading to more frequent landslides and flash floods.

4. Biodiversity Loss: The fragile ecosystem of the Himalayas is at risk due to changing climate patterns, resulting in habitat loss, migration of species, and altered ecological dynamics.

Coastal States:

1. Sea-Level Rise: Coastal states are vulnerable to sea-level rise, resulting in erosion, inundation of low-lying areas, and increased salinity intrusion. This threatens coastal communities, agriculture, and ecosystem services.

2. Cyclones and Storm Surges: Climate change is projected to intensify cyclones and storm surges, posing a significant threat to coastal regions. This could lead to increased damage to infrastructure, loss of lives, and displacement of communities.

3. Coastal Erosion: Rising sea levels and increased storm activity contribute to coastal erosion, a phenomenon already observed in many coastal areas of India. This poses a threat to homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods, especially in densely populated coastal cities.

Overall, climate change poses risks to India's water resources, food security, biodiversity, public health, and economic well-being. Adapting to these challenges and implementing mitigation measures is crucial to minimizing the impacts of climate change on the Himalayan and coastal states of India.