Yes, large parts of China, especially major
coastal cities like Shanghai, Tianjin, and Beijing, are experiencing
significant land subsidence (sinking) due to heavy groundwater extraction, the
immense weight of buildings from rapid urbanization, and natural geology,
creating a serious crisis that increases flood risks and threatens
infrastructure, with projections showing millions could live below sea level by
2120 if trends continue.
Key Reasons for Sinking
·
Groundwater
Depletion: Pumping
excessive water from underground aquifers leaves empty spaces, causing soil to
compact and the land to sink.
·
Weight of Buildings: China's massive construction boom adds significant
pressure, especially in cities built on soft sediments.
·
Geology: Delta regions, where many cities are
located, are naturally prone to sinking due to soft, thick sediments.
Major Affected Cities
·
Tianjin: Has some of the
highest subsidence rates, with over 89% of its area sinking significantly.
·
Shanghai: Has sunk up to 3
meters in the last century, though groundwater control measures have helped in
some areas.
·
Beijing: Also severely
affected, with some districts sinking rapidly.
Consequences & Risks
·
Infrastructure
Damage: Buildings, roads,
and sewage systems are damaged, as seen with street collapses in Tianjin.
·
Flooding: Sinking exacerbates sea-level rise,
putting coastal cities at higher risk of severe flooding.
·
Population
at Risk: Projections
suggest millions of coastal residents could be living below sea level by
2120.
