Water Crises and Vulnerabilities in the Indian Sundarbans: Women’s Perspective on Socio-Demographic and Climate Resilience
摘要
The Indian Sundarbans are confronting an escalating water crisis driven by socio-demographic vulnerabilities, climate change, and increasing pressure on natural resources. This study examines six key blocks—Basanti, Gosaba, Sagar, Kultali, Namkhana, and Patharpratima—utilizing a composite Livelihood Vulnerability Index (LVI) to evaluate water-related risks. Results reveal widespread unsafe water use, extended distances to water access points, and growing local conflicts, particularly in communities with female-headed or single-earner households. Climate variability intensifies these issues, with nearly all households reporting changes in temperature and flooding patterns. The findings highlight the urgent need for integrated resilience strategies that combine improved water infrastructure, participatory community governance, and climate-adaptive interventions to protect livelihoods and health in this ecologically sensitive region.