Will Kochi meet similar fate as Chennai? Study claims 12 Indian cities could face ill-effects of climate change

CHENNAI: Cyclone Michaung has wreaked havoc across the Tamil Nadu capital of Chennai as the torrential rains submerged the entire city in water and disrupted road, rail, air transport and electricity connections. Chennai experienced 40 cm of rainfall, which brought life to a standstill.

Chennai is one of the Indian cities experiencing the worst effects of climate change. In 2015, the city experienced another flood. The cyclone alone cannot be blamed for the present situation.

Waterlogging in Chennai city is a manifestation of unplanned urban management. This is a problem that exists in many Indian cities. Inadequacy of proper drainage systems and obstruction of the natural flow of rivers aggravate the problems.

The study report suggests that India's coastal cities are at risk of flooding. Rising sea levels pose a threat to big cities like Mumbai and Kolkata. These cities are already experiencing the effects of climate change.

The Potsdam Institute for Climatic Impact Research has warned that 12 Indian cities could be completely submerged by the end of this century. Coastal cities are listed as the most vulnerable.

According to the IPCC report, 12 cities such as Mumbai, Visakhapatnam and Kochi are likely to be affected. The report also points out that the occurrence of waterlogging in India's metro cities such as Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata is likely to increase in the coming years.