The Ministry of Earth Science has drawn up a frightening scenario of global warming and climate change causing sharp rise in sea level that may swallow up the mega coastal cities of Mumbai and Chennai with large and growing population and huge investments in infrastructure.
Pointing out that India is among 27 countries identified by the United Nations Environment Programme as most vulnerable to a sea-level rise, the ministry also warns that low-level areas such as those in Orissa and West Bengal could be vulnerable to inundation.
It says a small variable rise in temperature can reduce the ocean's absorption capability and play 'much larger havoc than manmade changes'.
Text: A Correspondent | Photograph: Sebastian D'Souza/AFP/Getty Images
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