EP 21 Climate Change & Sea Level Rise: What's the Future of India's Coastal Cities?

This episode of the Climate Conundrum Podcast delves into the critical issue of sea level rise and its implications for coastal cities, particularly in India. Host Sanika Diwanji is joined by Dr. Indu Murthy, who discusses the science behind sea level rise, the vulnerability of urban areas, and the socio-economic impacts on communities. The conversation highlights the importance of ecosystem-based solutions and the need for comprehensive policy responses to address the challenges posed by climate change.Key Takeaways- 230 million people live within one meter above sea level.- Sea level rise is a slow but creeping issue.- Coastal cities are hubs of economic activity and at risk.- Land loss is evident for communities near the coast.- The impacts of climate change are differential across regions.- Ecosystems like mangroves provide vital protection.- There is no single solution to combat climate change.- Strengthening coastal infrastructure is essential for resilience.- Restoring natural buffers is crucial for coastal protection.- Planned relocation of communities is costly and complex.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Sea Level Rise and Its Impacts02:33 Understanding the Connection Between Climate Change and Sea Level Rise07:06 The Role of Rivers and Urban Flooding08:45 Perception of Sea Level Rise Among Coastal Residents11:16 Research Insights on Sea Level Rise in Indian Cities15:14 Community-Based Analysis and Future Projections17:49 The Importance of Preparedness and Climate Scenarios20:21 Vulnerability of Indian Cities to Sea Level Rise22:36 Nature-Based Solutions and Ecosystem Services26:15 Identifying the Most Vulnerable Cities28:09 Social and Economic Implications of Displacement30:25 Steps for Government and Urban Planning33:22 Success Stories and Recommendations for Action36:15 Outro template with music.mp4