Himalaya Harbinger, Uttarakhand Bureau.
The World Bank’s report Towards Resilient and Prosperous Cities in India has identified a few areas in Mumbai as coastal flooding hotspots, warning that rising sea levels could severely impact coastal cities by 2100.
The report highlights that affordable housing and proximity to jobs often compel the urban poor to settle in high flood-risk zones. In Mumbai, for instance, rents in such vulnerable areas are typically 20–25% lower than the city average.
Delhi has the largest built-up areas exposed to river-related flooding, the report noted.
Mumbai, Surat and Kolkata most affected cities
According to the World Bank report, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Surat are likely to be among the most affected Indian cities due to rising sea levels. In Greater Mumbai, southern parts could face regular flooding or be surrounded by water during high tides, while sea water may also seep into new settlements in Navi Mumbai and northern suburbs through natural waterways.
Even without any expansion beyond 2015 boundaries, Greater Mumbai could have 210 sq km of exposed settlements by 2100, the highest among Indian cities. Kolkata shows a similar, though smaller-scale, risk pattern. In Surat, the newer built-up areas on the western side are most vulnerable, the report notes
The report, citing Aqueduct, a global flood analyzer, warns that the annual cost of coastal flooding in urban areas could surge from $2.4 billion in 2010 to $21 billion by 2030, and a staggering $75 billion by 2050 if no preventive action is taken.
