Building Resilient Indian Cities: A Call to Action

By Suryavanshi IAS

Introduction

A recent World Bank report, ‘Towards Resilient and Prosperous Cities in India’, highlights the dual challenge facing Indian cities—rapid urbanization and climate change impacts. While cities are engines of economic growth (contributing to 70% of new jobs by 2030), they are also increasingly vulnerable to extreme heat, floods, and infrastructure strain. With India’s urban population expected to nearly double to 951 million by 2050, urgent action is needed to ensure sustainable urban development.

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Key Findings of the World Bank Report

1. Urban Heat Island Effect

   • City centres are 3-4°C hotter than surrounding areas due to heat waves and concrete expansion.

   • Example: Delhi’s temperatures have risen sharply due to reduced green cover.

2. Flood Risks from Poor Drainage

   • Rapid construction reduces natural water absorption, increasing flood risks.

   • Example: Chennai floods (2015, 2023) were worsened by unplanned urbanization.

3. Housing & Infrastructure Demand

   • By 2070, India will need 144 million new homes, requiring climate-resilient planning.

4. Economic Losses

   • Extreme weather could cost billions in damages if resilience measures are delayed.

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Case Studies of Resilient Cities

The report studied 24 cities, with special focus on:

• Chennai: Implementing stormwater drainage projects post-2015 floods.

• Indore: Leading in waste management and urban greenery.

• Surat: Using early flood warning systems to protect industries.

• New Delhi: Pilot projects on cool roofs to combat heatwaves.

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World Bank’s Recommendations

1. Green Infrastructure

   • Expand urban forests, parks, and water bodies to reduce heat and floods.

2. Cool Roofs & Reflective Pavements

   • Lower indoor temperatures in slums and high-density areas.

3. Better Stormwater Management

   • Upgrade drainage systems to prevent waterlogging.

4. Early Warning Systems

   • Use AI and IoT for flood and heatwave alerts.

5. Policy Reforms

   • Strengthen urban planning laws to enforce climate-resilient construction.

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Why This Matters for UPSC Aspirants?

Urban resilience is a critical topic for GS Paper 1 (Urbanization), GS Paper 3 (Disaster Management), and Essay. Previous UPSC questions include:

Previous Year Questions

1. "Urban heat islands are a consequence of unplanned urbanization." Discuss. (GS1, 2022)

2. How can Indian cities be made more resilient to climate change? (GS3, 2021)

3. Examine the role of smart city missions in disaster preparedness. (GS2, 2020)

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Conclusion: The Way Forward

India’s urban future depends on sustainable planning today. By adopting green infrastructure, implementing effective policies, and fostering community participation, cities can grow economically while mitigating climate-related risks. For UPSC aspirants, understanding these dynamics is crucial for both prelims and mains.

"The cities we build today will decide the India of tomorrow."

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