Alert sounded by new climate vulnerability index

Assam at high risk of weather change

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: The States of the north-eastern region, including Assam, are quite susceptible to severe climate activities -- including floods, droughts and cyclones. This alert has been sounded in the first 'Climate Vulnerability Index' prepared by the CEEW (Council on Energy, Environment & Water). Of 33 districts of Assam, Dhemaji and Nagaon are among the 463 maximum weather-prone districts, added the report.

Along with Assam, seven other States, including Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Bihar are also the most susceptible States to experience severe climate change, added the report. The research has highlighted that the NE States are at risk of floods, even as those within the South are at risk of excessive droughts.

The report also stated that 27 States and UTs (Union Territories) are prone to severe weather activities which frequently disrupt the neighborhood financial system thereby displacing the weaker communities. The report has analysed 640 districts of India and found that 463 of those are at risk of excessive floods, droughts and cyclones.

More than 80 per cent of the Indians stay in districts prone to weather risks. In other words, 17 of 20 people in the country are at weather risk. Of them, each 5 Indians stay in regions that are extraordinarily vulnerable, pointed out the report. Further, 183 hotspot districts are particularly prone to multiple intense weather events.

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