Indian megacities sinking threaten buildings

Indian Megacities Are Sinking, Threatening Thousands of Buildings

Several major Indian cities—Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru—are gradually sinking, primarily because of excessive groundwater extraction. This subsidence poses serious risks to thousands of buildings in these urban areas.

Causes of Sinking

The main factor driving this sinking is the overuse of groundwater to meet the growing population’s needs. Drawing excessive water from underground reservoirs causes the soil to compact and settle, leading to surface-level sinking known as subsidence.

Impact on Infrastructure

Widespread sinking endangers the structural integrity of buildings, roads, and other infrastructure, increasing the likelihood of damage or collapse. Urban centers with dense construction are particularly vulnerable, putting the lives and livelihoods of residents at risk.

Study Findings

Research indicates a worrying trend for these metropolitan regions, with continuous land subsidence observed over recent years. This calls for urgent measures to regulate groundwater use and implement sustainable urban water management practices.

"Parts of Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and Bengaluru, India's largest cities, are slowly sinking, mainly due to overextraction of groundwater," notes the study highlighting the extent of the problem.

Excessive groundwater withdrawal is causing major Indian cities to sink, threatening thousands of buildings and highlighting the urgent need for sustainable water and urban management.

Mongabay — 2025-11-27

Indian Megacities Are Sinking, Threatening Thousands of Buildings

Causes of Sinking

Impact on Infrastructure

Study Findings

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