Global sea levels rose 4.7 mm a year during 2014-23 and a record 5.9 mm in 2024. The UN warns that rising seas are now an economic emergency, not a distant threat
More than 14 million people in Mumbai, Kolkata and Dhaka face risks from permanent inundation. For vulnerable cities, the threat extends beyond buildings to homes and livelihoods
Land subsidence can magnify the impact of rising seas
Saltwater intrusion, flooding and damaged infrastructure can disrupt water, sanitation, transport, energy and economic activity
India has lost an estimated 40% of its mangroves over the past century
Restoring them should be seen as investment in natural coastal infrastructure, alongside seawalls and drainage
Developing countries need an estimated $310-365 billion annually for adaptation
India will need public investment alongside multilateral and concessional finance to build resilience
Coastal development must account for future sea-level rise and subsidence
Land-use plans, resilient housing, early warnings and managed relocation can reduce avoidable economic damage