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Islands Vanish as Seas Rise
13 Feb
Summary
- Sundarbans mangrove forest faces submergence due to rising sea levels.
- Ancient cities like Pavlopetri and Heracleion lie preserved on ocean floors.
- Ocean sediment shields underwater relics from decay and damage.
The escalating impacts of climate change are causing sea levels to rise globally, leading to the submersion of islands. The Sundarbans, a vast mangrove forest and UNESCO World Heritage Site, are currently experiencing this threat, forcing inhabitants to migrate.
This phenomenon of land loss echoes historical events, including the sinking of Indira Point in the Great Nicobar Islands following a 2004 tsunami. Ancient cities worldwide have also met this fate.
Pavlopetri in Greece submerged 5,000 years ago, while the Egyptian port city of Heracleion sank approximately 1,200 years ago. Jamaica's Port Royal was swallowed by the sea in 1692 after a massive earthquake. Closer to home, the ancient city of Dwarka in Gujarat has been found on the seabed.
These submerged sites are remarkably preserved due to protective ocean sediment layers. The limited oxygen and lack of weathering on the ocean floor significantly slow the decay of organic materials and artifacts, allowing for archaeological discoveries. Coastal cities and islands must now implement defense mechanisms against erosion and potential natural disasters.
