KOCHI: While experts warn about the impact of climate change for a city like Kochi with a fragile ecosystem, a recent study has shown that there is no decrease in the average rainfall in the city. The study conducted by IIT Delhi indicates that though there is a drastic change in the rainfall pattern, the amount of rain has not decreased. But, the temperature is on the rise.
During a recent stakeholders’ workshop on climate change mitigation strategies jointly conducted by the City Corporation and International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI), experts indicated the city’s vulnerabilities regarding climate change impact. “Even when there is a drastic change in the pattern of the monsoon, the study report shows no change in the average rainfall. But it is a fact that temperature precipitation has been increasing every year,” said Ramiz Khan, ICLEI, South Asia director.
There are strong signals to indicate that night temperature in Kochi is on the rise along with mean annual temperature. There has been an increase in warm temperature events and a decrease in cold temperature events in the 1969- 2005 period.
The projected mean temperature may show a net increase of 0.53 degree Celsius during 2015-2044 with respect to the mean temperature of 1969-2000. During 2015-2024 and 2015-2034, the warm temperature events may increase and cold temperature events may decrease in Kochi, according to the scientific study.
“Our objective is not only publishing a study report and preparing an action plan but to implement the projects in a feasible manner. “Based on the report, we are now developing a resilience strategy under the Asian Cities Climate Change Resilience Network (ACCCRN). Support will be given to the City Corporation in identifying funding sources to implement projects,” added the ICLEI official.
