metropolitan area to increased precipitation in a changing climate
Resource information
This study aims to strengthen the
understanding of the vulnerability of Kolkata from increased
precipitation caused by climate change effects with a
specific goal to: compile a data base with past weather
related information and damage caused by extreme weather
related episodes; develop hydrological, hydraulic, and storm
drainage models to identify vulnerable areas and determine
physical damage estimates resulting from climate change
effects; assess monetary, social, and environmental impacts
resulting from such climate change events; and strengthen
local capabilities so that the planning process for Kolkata
can account for climate related damage effects in future
while analyzing all new projects. In this study,
precipitation events in Kolkata based on available
historical rainfall data for 25 years has been considered as
a baseline (without climate change) scenario. The study
modeled the impact of climate change on increased flooding
in Kolkata Metropolitan Area (KMA). The main causes of
flooding in KMA are intense precipitation, overtopping of
the Hooghly River due to water inflow from local
precipitation as well as that from the catchment area, and
storm surge effects. Land subsidence was not included in the
study as it was felt to be a localized problem in only a few pockets.
