Produced by: Tarun Mishra
Amidst the alarming reality of rising global temperatures and sea levels, numerous coastal cities are grappling with the ominous prospect of sinking into the depths of the ocean. From Jakarta to Miami, these urban centers are confronting the harsh consequences of climate change according to a 2019 report by World Economic Forum, with innovative solutions being sought to stave off impending disaster.
Jakarta is sinking at an alarming rate, driven by excessive groundwater pumping, and could be submerged by 2050. The Indonesian government has approved a monumental plan to relocate the capital to safeguard its 10 million residents, at a staggering cost of $33 billion.
Lagos, Africa's largest city faces the threat of coastal erosion and flooding due to rising seas exacerbated by global warming, posing significant risks to its inhabitants and infrastructure.
Despite contributing minimally to climate change emissions, Bangladesh is among the worst-hit by rising sea levels, with projections indicating widespread flooding and displacement of millions by 2050.
The iconic city of Venice is gradually subsiding, compounded by the effects of climate change. Efforts to combat flooding, including the construction of the Mose flood barrier, face delays and challenges amid increasingly severe storms.
With one of the fastest rates of sea-level rise on the East Coast, Virginia Beach confronts the dual threat of rising water levels and sinking land, potentially experiencing up to nearly 12 feet of sea-level rise by 2100.
Bangkok's sinking trajectory could see it submerged by 2030, prompting innovative solutions such as the Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park to mitigate flooding during rainy seasons.
The vulnerability of New Orleans to sea-level rise is underscored by its sinking landscape, exacerbated by its location on a river delta. Parts of the city could be underwater by 2100, according to a NASA study.
With 90% of its area below sea level, Rotterdam employs innovative strategies like Room for the River projects and storm surge barriers to mitigate the risks posed by rising ocean levels.
Alexandria faces disappearing beaches and the encroaching Mediterranean Sea, with projections indicating a rise of up to 2 feet by 2100, threatening the city's coastal areas.
Miami is particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels, experiencing accelerated rates of sea-level rise compared to other regions. Floods, water contamination, and significant infrastructure damage are among the pressing challenges facing the city.