Banjul Faces Threat of Underwater Ghost Town Due to Climate Change

Banjul, The Gambia, is facing a potential underwater future due to rising sea levels driven by climate change. Severe flooding has already impacted thousands, and a significant portion of the population plans to leave in the coming decades. Local initiatives aim to improve resilience through ecological restoration. Meanwhile, broader climate action is necessary to combat global warming.

Banjul, the capital city of The Gambia, is facing severe threats from rising sea levels, which is pushing it towards becoming an underwater ghost town. Climate change, accelerated by industrialization since the 1800s, has led to rapid temperature increases and significant impacts on sea levels worldwide. As a low-lying city, Banjul’s future looks increasingly precarious due to environmental factors and sand mining practices that have disrupted its natural defenses against the ocean.

The detrimental effects of climate change are already visible in Banjul, with flash floods impacting over 50,000 residents during a torrential storm in July 2022. The city received more than 10 inches of rain within 20 hours, overwhelming its infrastructure. James F.P Gomez, The Gambia’s minister for Fisheries, warns that a one-meter sea-level rise could fully submerge Greater Banjul, exacerbating the ongoing crisis for residents.

Local inhabitants like Aminata Jatta have reported a decline in the agricultural sector due to sand mining. Jatta stated, “The sand mining has devastated our lives,” emphasizing the direct threats to livelihoods and survival. With the city’s population plummeting from about 45,000 in 1983 to an estimated 26,000 by 2024, many individuals are already contemplating migration, with 64% intending to leave by 2050.

In response to the crisis, initiatives such as the Climate-Resilient Banjul project, funded with $12 million from the Global Environment Facility, aim to foster transformative change. Additionally, the City-link Ostend Banjul project, supported by the EU, focuses on enhancing coastal defenses by planting thousands of coconut trees and other vegetation. These steps aim to restore natural barriers, improving Banjul’s resilience against rising waters.

Climate change is not exclusive to Banjul; it threatens regions globally, including areas in Canada. Mitigating climate change can begin with reducing fossil fuel dependency and adopting cleaner, renewable energy sources. Personal and community actions can significantly contribute to broader efforts against environmental deterioration.

Banjul is at a critical juncture due to rising sea levels driven by climate change and environmental degradation. Local initiatives exist to combat these issues, but significant challenges remain as a large part of the population considers leaving. Sustainable practices and community engagement can pave the way for resilience against future environmental threats. It remains vital to adopt cleaner energy sources and implement effective climate-resilient measures in vulnerable regions.

Original Source: www.thecooldown.com