India warned of drought and floods
Last updated at 15:26 08 September 2005
The findings of a three-year UK-India research programme, were unveiled at the EU-India Summit in Delhi.
The £450,000 research looked at the impacts of climate change on the sub-continent and discovered that temperatures were likely to rise in the next few decades, leading to a reduction in wheat and rice yields in India.
While rainfall is predicted to rise in some regions, periods of drought are expected to become longer in others, leading to changes in forestry and vegetation.
Researchers found that the incidence of malaria could increase in areas that are already prone to disease and the effects of climate change could introduce malaria into new regions.
The study also looked at the impacts of climate change on a coastal railway system in south-west India and showed that rising sea levels could cause severe disruption of services.
The programme involved eight Indian institutes that are working to assess the impacts of climate change on sea level variability, water resources, forests, agriculture, health, energy, industry and transport infrastructure.
Environment Minister Elliot Morley said the programme had enhanced India's understanding of the impacts of climate change across a wide range of sectors.
He said: "I welcome the fact that the project has helped increase close working relations on climate change as well enhancing the capacity for climate change research in India.
"The project has contributed to a rise in awareness of the potential consequences of climate change in India and the importance of taking action.
"Climate change in India represents an additional stress on a country that is already facing tremendous pressures due to rapid development.
"With its growing population, India is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
"Understanding climate change and its consequences, is critical to protect lives and assets upon which India's economy is dependent.
"Awareness of climate change and its impacts on people, the economy and livelihoods will be important to balance economic growth and development with a changing resource base."
During the project, Indian scientists spent time working with UK research institutes such as the Hadley Centre for Climate Prediction and Research, Exeter.
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