Fri Sep 06 12:17:38 UTC 2024: ## India Faces Growing Climate Crisis: 85% of Districts Vulnerable to Extreme Events
A new study by IPE Global and Esri India reveals that over 85% of districts in India are susceptible to extreme climate events like floods, droughts, and cyclones. The research, spanning 50 years from 1973 to 2023, shows a dramatic increase in these events, particularly in the last decade.
The study found a five-fold increase in overall climate extremes, with a four-fold increase in floods and a two-fold increase in droughts. Cyclone events have also increased fourfold. Eastern India, the northeast, and the south are particularly vulnerable to extreme floods.
The study also highlights a disturbing trend of “swapping” – traditionally flood-prone areas becoming drought-prone and vice versa. This trend is particularly pronounced in states like Tripura, Kerala, Bihar, Punjab, and Jharkhand.
The researchers warn that over 1.47 billion Indians could be exposed to climate extremes by 2036. They attribute the growing severity of these events to a 0.6-degree Celsius temperature rise over the last century.
Ashwajit Singh, founder and managing director of IPE Global, emphasized the need for India to shift its budget focus from climate mitigation to adaptation. He highlighted the substantial economic losses India has already experienced due to climate impacts, including an 8% GDP loss in 2022.
The study recommends the establishment of a Climate Risk Observatory to guide policymakers at all levels, along with the creation of an Infrastructure Climate Fund to support resilient infrastructure and local climate action.
Agendra Kumar, managing director of Esri India, stressed the importance of a holistic, data-driven approach to inform policy decisions and build climate resilience.
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