What might happen to coastal cities in India if glaciers and polar ice keep melting faster? [Pg. No. 252]

If glaciers and polar ice keep melting faster, sea level will rise, which can seriously affect coastal cities in India such as Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and Kochi. Low-lying areas may face more frequent flooding, especially during high tides, cyclones and heavy rainfall. Seawater may enter rivers and groundwater, making freshwater salty and unsuitable for drinking or farming. Coastal erosion can damage beaches, roads, buildings and ports. In the long term, many people living near the coast may be forced to shift to safer areas. Thus, faster melting of ice can threaten coastal ecosystems, human settlements and the economy of coastal cities.