India’s reliance on the southwest monsoon is increasingly jeopardised by climate change, leading to severe disruptions in agriculture and urban infrastructure. Traditionally, the monsoon’s predictable pattern allowed farmers and cities to plan effectively. However, the recent trend of prolonged dry spells followed by intense rainfall is overwhelming existing drainage systems, resulting in devastating floods and landslides.
The impact is profound, with over 100 fatalities reported due to extreme weather events this season alone. The northeastern state of Assam has been particularly hard hit, affecting over 120,000 people. As rainfall patterns shift, farmers face challenges in sowing and maintaining soil moisture, while urban areas struggle with inadequate infrastructure designed for historical weather patterns.
Experts warn that India’s infrastructure is ill-equipped to handle these new realities, as drainage systems are based on outdated rainfall averages. This disconnect between planning and the current climate crisis poses significant risks, necessitating immediate action from authorities to adapt to these changes.
The call for ‘climate proofing’ in urban planning is urgent, yet current policies often overlook these critical adaptations. As extreme weather becomes the norm, integrating climate considerations into development strategies is essential for safeguarding lives and livelihoods across India.
Source: DW News
