-
27 Jun 2025
GS Paper 1
Geography
Day 11: “The Arabian Sea, once cyclone calm, is now brewing storms.”Examine the recent rise in tropical cyclone activity over the Arabian Sea. (150 words)
Approach:
- Briefly note the past calm and recent spike in Arabian Sea cyclones.
- Examine the causes and implications of the recent rise in cyclonic activity.
- Conclude with a way forward.
Introduction:
Traditionally, nearly 80% of cyclones in India originated in the Bay of Bengal, with the Arabian Sea accounting for the rest. However, data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and studies by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) reveal a 20-30% rise in very severe cyclonic storms (VSCS) over the Arabian Sea in the last two decades.
Body
Drivers of the Surge
- Warming Sea Surface Temperatures (SSTs): The Arabian Sea is warming at a rate of 0.5°C per decade, offering more latent heat for cyclogenesis.
- Reduced Vertical Wind Shear: This promotes storm formation and sustains their intensity.
- Changing Monsoon Patterns: Delayed monsoon onset or withdrawal is leading to post-monsoon cyclogenesis.
- Anthropogenic Emissions: Increased greenhouse gases and aerosols affect air-sea interactions and cyclone dynamics.
Implications
- Socioeconomic: Cyclones like Tauktae caused ₹15,000 crore losses and displaced thousands in coastal Gujarat and Maharashtra.
- Fisheries & Livelihoods: Small fishermen bear the brunt of unpredictable storm surges and evacuations.
- Urban Vulnerability: Coastal cities like Mumbai and Kochi are at greater risk due to high population density and inadequate infrastructure.
- Environmental Damage: Coral reefs, mangroves, and estuaries face damage, affecting biodiversity.
Conclusion :
The Arabian Sea’s rising cyclonic activity signals a climate-induced shift requiring proactive governance. As UN SDG 13 (Climate Action) urges, India must enhance coastal resilience through early warning systems, robust infrastructure, and climate-smart policies.
