Context:
The World Bank, in partnership with the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, has released a critical report titled “Towards Resilient and Prosperous Cities in India”, warning that India’s urban growth is at risk due to increasing climate vulnerabilities, especially heat waves and urban flooding.
Key Findings of the Report:
- Urbanisation and Economic Potential
- Urban population to nearly double: From current levels to 951 million by 2050.
- Cities are projected to contribute 70% of new jobs by 2030, highlighting their central role in India’s economic trajectory.
- Over 144 million new homes will be required by 2070 to accommodate this population growth.
- Climate Risks Threaten Urban Prosperity
- Extreme heat and heat islands: Temperatures in city centres are already 3–4°C higher than surrounding areas due to the urban heat island effect.
- Increased flood vulnerability: Rapid construction and shrinking green spaces are reducing cities’ ability to absorb stormwater, intensifying urban flooding.
- Massive economic risks: Without climate adaptation, billions of dollars in future losses are anticipated from extreme weather events.
- Infrastructure Opportunity
- Over 50% of urban infrastructure needed by 2050 is yet to be built, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to integrate climate resilience from the ground up.
- Case Studies and Focus Cities
- The report examined 24 Indian cities, with special focus on:
- Chennai
- Indore
- New Delhi
- Lucknow
- Surat
- Thiruvananthapuram
- The report examined 24 Indian cities, with special focus on:
Key Recommendations
To safeguard urban growth and vulnerable populations, the World Bank recommends:
- Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Investment in green urban development including housing, mobility, drainage, and municipal services.
- Urban Heat Mitigation Measures:
- Cool roofs,
- Expanding green spaces,
- Tree plantation,
- Improved ventilation in buildings.
- Flood Management Solutions:
- Better stormwater regulation,
- Rainwater harvesting,
- Urban wetlands protection.
- Early Warning Systems: For heat waves and floods, to protect the urban poor and reduce disaster-related casualties.
