Q. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has predicted a global sea level rise of about one metre by AD 2100. What would be its impact in India and the other countries in the Indian Ocean region? (250 words, 15 Marks)
Why the Question?
UPSC PYQ – CSE Mains – 2023
Keywords of the Question
- Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
- A global sea level rise
- impact in India and the other countries
- Indian Ocean region
Directive Word
What – When a question begins with “What,” it typically requires you to provide a clear and concise explanation or description of the subject matter without delving into analysis or evaluation.
How to approach this Question?
Introduction:
- Briefly introduce the IPCC’s prediction of a one-metre sea level rise by 2100.
- Mention the significance of this prediction for India and the Indian Ocean region.
Body:
- Reasons Behind the Predicted Sea Level Rise:
- Melting glaciers and ice sheets.
- Thermal expansion of seawater due to global warming.
- Impact on India:
- Inundation of coastal cities and loss of land.
- Economic consequences on agriculture, fisheries, and infrastructure.
- Environmental impact on biodiversity and ecosystems.
- Social and health issues, including displacement and public health concerns.
- Impact on Other Countries in the Indian Ocean Region:
- Similar threats to coastal cities and infrastructure.
- Economic and environmental challenges.
- Regional cooperation needs for mitigation and adaptation.
Conclusion:
- Summarize the key points discussed.
- Emphasize the importance of proactive measures and international cooperation to address the challenges posed by sea level rise.
Note: Please note that the following ‘answers’ are not ‘model answers’ nor are they synopses in the strictest sense. Instead, they are content designed to meet the demands of the question while providing comprehensive coverage of the topic.
Answer Key
Introduction
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has projected a global sea level rise of approximately one metre by AD 2100. This significant rise poses severe threats to coastal regions worldwide, particularly affecting countries in the Indian Ocean region, including India. Understanding the causes and potential impacts of this phenomenon is crucial for developing effective mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Body
Reasons Behind the Predicted Sea Level Rise
- Melting Glaciers and Ice Sheets: The accelerated melting of glaciers and ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica contributes significantly to rising sea levels.
- Thermal Expansion: As global temperatures increase, seawater expands, leading to higher sea levels.
- Loss of Ice Mass: The reduction in ice mass from mountain glaciers adds to the ocean’s volume.
- Changes in Land Water Storage: Alterations in land water storage, such as groundwater extraction and dam construction, affect sea levels.
- Vertical Land Motion: Subsidence and the rebounding of Earth’s crust since the last glacial period also influence sea levels.
- Increased Ocean Heat Content: The oceans absorb most of the excess heat from global warming, further contributing to sea level rise.
Impact on India
- Inundation of Coastal Cities: Major cities like Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata face the risk of flooding and land loss.
- Economic Consequences: Agriculture, fisheries, and tourism sectors could suffer significant losses due to coastal erosion and saltwater intrusion.
- Environmental Impact: Coastal ecosystems, including mangroves and coral reefs, are at risk of degradation.
- Social and Health Issues: Displacement of coastal communities could lead to increased migration and public health challenges.
- Increased Frequency of Extreme Weather Events: Rising sea levels can exacerbate the impact of cyclones and storm surges.
- Infrastructure Damage: Coastal infrastructure, including ports and roads, may suffer extensive damage.
Impact on Other Countries in the Indian Ocean Region
- Threat to Coastal Cities: Countries like Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives face similar risks of coastal flooding and land loss.
- Economic Challenges: Key economic sectors, including agriculture and fisheries, are vulnerable to the impacts of sea level rise.
- Environmental Degradation: Loss of biodiversity and damage to marine ecosystems are significant concerns.
- Social Displacement: Large-scale displacement of populations could lead to regional migration issues.
- Increased Storm Surges: Higher sea levels can intensify the impact of tropical cyclones and storm surges.
- Regional Cooperation Needs: Addressing these challenges requires collaborative efforts among Indian Ocean countries for effective mitigation and adaptation.
Conclusion
The predicted one-metre rise in global sea levels by AD 2100 poses severe threats to India and other countries in the Indian Ocean region. The impacts range from economic and environmental challenges to social and health issues. Proactive measures, including enhancing coastal defenses, improving disaster preparedness, and fostering regional cooperation, are essential to mitigate these risks and ensure the resilience of vulnerable communities.
Mind Map
