Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy has raised concerns about the potential impact of climate change on India’s urban centres, warning that rising temperatures and extreme weather could lead to mass migration from rural areas to cities like Bengaluru, Pune, and Hyderabad.
Speaking at an event in Pune on Friday, Murthy highlighted how shifting weather patterns and rising global temperatures might render some rural regions in India uninhabitable within the next 20-25 years. This could force millions of people to migrate to urban areas, already grappling with challenges such as pollution, overpopulation, and inadequate infrastructure.
“What is likely to happen is that there will be a mass migration from rural parts of states… into habitable places like Bangalore, maybe Pune, maybe Hyderabad,” he said during an award ceremony.
Murthy emphasized the increasing difficulties faced by these cities, citing rising pollution, traffic congestion, and a deteriorating quality of life. “These cities have become extremely challenging to live in, difficult to navigate, and have witnessed rising pollution levels. They are heading toward becoming unlivable,” he cautioned.
Call for Collective Action
To mitigate the risks of rural-to-urban migration and address the broader issue of climate change, Murthy stressed the need for collaboration between the corporate sector, political leaders, and bureaucrats. He urged stakeholders to work together to prevent the overwhelming of urban infrastructure and ensure sustainable development.
“We in India, particularly the corporate sector, have to cooperate with politicians and bureaucrats and ensure that there is no mass migration,” he stated, as reported by The Economic Times.
Despite the seriousness of the situation, Murthy expressed optimism about India’s ability to address these challenges. He pointed out that while India often acts reactively, there is hope for achieving significant progress by 2030 through timely interventions and collective efforts.
A Looming Urban Crisis
India’s rapid urbanisation and population growth have already pushed cities to their limits. The potential influx of migrants driven by climate change is expected to intensify the strain on urban infrastructure and resources, exacerbating challenges such as housing shortages, traffic woes, and environmental degradation.
Murthy’s remarks serve as a reminder of the urgent need for climate action and strategic urban planning to address the dual crises of environmental degradation and mass migration. “I am optimistic that we will make progress by 2030,” he reassured the audience, expressing hope that India’s resilience and proactive measures will help tackle the impending challenges.
Conclusion
As climate change continues to pose a serious threat globally, Murthy’s warning highlights the need for India to prepare for its effects on rural and urban populations alike. His call for collaboration and immediate action underscores the importance of addressing climate change to secure a sustainable future for the country.
Sources By Agencies
