World Bank Report: Climate Risks Threaten India’s Cities
Why in the news
The World Bank, with the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, warned that India’s urban growth is exposed to climate shocks, chiefly heat waves and floods.
Key findings
| Theme | Finding |
|---|---|
| Population | Nearly doubling to 951 million by 2050 |
| Jobs | Cities to supply 70% of new jobs by 2030 |
| Housing | Over 144 million new homes by 2070 |
| Heat | City centres 3-4°C hotter than surroundings (urban heat island) |
| Floods | Fast construction and fewer green spaces reduce stormwater absorption |
| Infrastructure | Over 50% of what is needed by 2050 is unbuilt, a chance to build in resilience |
- Billions of dollars in losses are likely without adaptation.
- Focus cities: Chennai, Indore, New Delhi, Lucknow, Surat, Thiruvananthapuram.
Recommendations
- Green, climate-resilient infrastructure: housing, mobility, drainage, municipal services.
- Heat mitigation: cool roofs, green spaces, tree planting, better ventilation.
- Flood management: stormwater regulation, rainwater harvesting, wetland protection.
- Early warning systems for heat waves and floods.
Exam angle
- Partner ministry: Housing and Urban Affairs.
- Numbers: 951 million, 24 cities.