Venice Conservation: Pumping Water Underground to Save Sinking City

Venice Is Sinking — Scientists Plan to Pump Water Underground to Save It

A bold new idea may lift the city before it disappears underwater

Venice, one of the world’s most beautiful and historic cities, is slowly sinking. Rising sea levels and natural ground movement are causing more floods every year. Now, scientists have come up with an unusual but smart idea — they want to pump seawater under the city to raise it up.

This new plan could help save Venice from going underwater, but is it safe? Let’s explore.

Why Is Venice Sinking?

Venice was built on soft land with wooden foundations centuries ago. Over time, the ground has been slowly going down, and now, climate change is making the sea levels go up. This combination is dangerous.

Already, the city faces floods multiple times every year. Tourists often walk on raised wooden paths just to avoid the water.

What’s the New Idea?

According to scientists, pumping seawater into the ground below Venice might gently lift the city. This method has worked in other places with similar problems. If it works in Venice, the city could rise by up to 30 cm in the next ten years.

👉 They will do this very carefully to avoid damaging buildings or canals.

Venice Is Already Fighting Back

This isn’t the only plan. The Italian government has already built the MOSE flood barriers — giant gates that close during high tides to protect the city. These gates are useful, but experts say they are not enough alone.

The water-pumping plan could be the second line of defense, and together, they might keep Venice safe for future generations.

Why This Matters for the World (and India)

Venice is not the only city at risk. Many coastal cities, including Mumbai and Kolkata, face similar threats from rising seas. If this idea works in Venice, it could inspire solutions for other places too.