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China’s major cities are sinking rapidly due to subsidence, which poses a significant threat to infrastructure and populations. In the next 100 years, a quarter of China’s coastal urban lands could be below sea level. Factors contributing to subsidence include the weight of buildings, groundwater extraction, and human activities such as oil drilling and coal mining. The study emphasizes the importance of accurate adaptation strategies and resiliency plans to combat climate change and sea-level rise. Limiting groundwater extraction and implementing measures to stabilize subsidence are crucial in minimizing damage.

The Uttarakhand High Court has raised concerns over the state government’s refusal to disclose reports prepared by central scientific and technical institutions on the subsidence in Joshimath. The court stated that making these reports public would provide vital information and instill public confidence in the government’s handling of the situation. The court allowed the chief secretary exemption from personal appearance in a recall application filed by the state government. Copies of the reports were submitted in a sealed cover.