Is Maldives sinking?

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Nowadays, global warming is the major factor behind the weather changes around the world. The weather of the earth is increasing day by day, and as a result we are witnessing the violent face of the earth and nature. Although there are many after effects of global warming but the immediate danger is sea-level rise. Because of global warming,  glaciers are also melting rapidly which results in sea-level rise.

According to a report, in past 100 years the sea-level rose by about 7 inches. Although there was no increase noted in 2010 and 2011 but it is still a danger to many countries of the world, specially the island countries. Maldives is one of these countries which are threatened by global warming and sea-level rise and reports says that Maldives may disappear from the world in next 100 years if the sea-level keep rising.

Let us first talk about Maldives. Maldives, the smallest Asian country is a combination of about 1,190 islands. It is one of the most beautiful country in Indian ocean and has several atolls that makes Maldives a perfect country to visit. More than 600,000 tourists visit Maldives annually but unfortunately we may lose this destination.

 

Why is Maldives in danger?

The highest point of Maldives is just 2.4 meters from the sea-level while the average is 1.5 meters. Reports says that 80% of the Maldives will be disappeared in the water grave if the sea-level rise just 1.5 meters. Currently there are 386,000 inhabitants in Maldives and all of them shall be relocated in India, Srilanka and Australia.

In 2009, the Maldives cabinet held a meeting underwater with the president Mohamed Nasheed to highlight the threat of global warming and rise in sea-level to Maldives. While underwater, they communicated through white boards and hand signals. Later a press conference was also held underwater the same day where Mohamed Nasheed passed this worth-understanding message.

If the Maldives cannot be saved today we do not feel that there is much of a chance for the rest of the world.