South Asia's Transport Infrastructure at Risk: Urgent Need for Climate Resilience Measures

 The vulnerability of South Asia’s transport infrastructure, with assets worth approximately $575 billion, is a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate risks in the region. As the report co-published by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) highlights, the direct and indirect consequences of climate-induced disruptions on the transport sector are significant. With $400 billion of these assets located in India, the scale of the challenge is immense.

The impact extends beyond transportation delays, directly affecting critical industries like manufacturing, agriculture, and services. These sectors form the backbone of South Asia’s economy, contributing significantly to the region’s GDP. Without immediate and strategic adaptation measures, we risk undermining decades of progress. This not only threatens economic stability but could also erode livelihoods and exacerbate inequalities.

Read more: https://indiaobservers.com/400-billion-indian-transport-assets-at-risk-from-climate-hazards/

The cost of inaction is staggering. The increase in the frequency and intensity of climate-related events has already strained infrastructure, and if left unaddressed, could bring development to a standstill. Strategic interventions, including investment in resilient infrastructure and integrated disaster management, are not just necessary—they are imperative. South Asia’s future prosperity hinges on its ability to adapt to the changing climate and build infrastructure that can withstand environmental shocks. If we fail to act now, we may face irreversible setbacks that could hinder growth for generations to come. The time to act is now.