Mira Bhayander Launches Climate Action Plan for Sustainability

Mira Bhayander, a city in Maharashtra’s Thane district, has launched its City Climate Action Plan for 2024-2047. This initiative aims to make the city climate-resilient and achieve net-zero emissions by 2047. The plan was revealed on January 29, 2025, and is a collaborative effort between The Aga Khan Agency for Habitat India and the Mira Bhayandar Municipal Corporation. Mira Bhayander joins four other cities in Maharashtra with similar climate action plans, including Mumbai and Nashik.

Emission Reduction Targets

• The City Climate Action Plan targets a 36% reduction in emissions.
• Key strategies include adopting renewable energy, enhancing energy efficiency in buildings, and improving waste management practices.
• The city currently emits 1.34 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent, with the stationary energy sector being the largest contributor.

Energy Consumption Patterns

• In 2023, Mira Bhayander consumed approximately 1,075 Gigawatt hours of electricity.
• The residential sector accounted for 62% of this consumption.
• The city has 340,000 residential and 51,000 commercial metered connections.
• The plan emphasises the need for energy-efficient measures, especially in buildings.

Priority Sectors for Action

The plan identifies six priority sectors – energy and buildings, water supply, urban flooding, urban greening, mobility and air quality, and waste management. Each sector has specific recommendations. For example, green retrofitting of buildings and the use of rooftop solar systems are encouraged.

Water Supply and Urban Flooding

Mira Bhayander faces a water supply deficit, with a demand of 235 million litres per day but a supply of only 190 million litres. The city is prone to urban flooding, with 72 identified waterlogging points. The plan suggests installing an early warning system and enhancing drainage infrastructure.

Urban Green Cover and Temperature Rise

Urban expansion has led to loss of green cover. The built-up area increased by 50% between 2005 and 2022, while green cover decreased by 13.6%. This has contributed to a rise in land surface temperature. The plan recommends community-led green space development.

Air Quality Management

Mira Bhayander’s air quality is concerning, with PM2.5 and PM10 levels exceeding WHO standards. The plan proposes developing a comprehensive air pollution emissions inventory to identify sources and implement targeted mitigation strategies.

Waste Management Strategies

The city generates about 650 tonnes of solid waste daily, primarily from residential sources. The plan includes initiatives for biogas generation and recycling construction waste. It recommends on-site wastewater treatment facilities for larger residential societies.

Community Engagement and Implementation

The success of the climate action plan relies on community engagement. The municipal corporation aims to involve residents in sustainability initiatives and ensure that the plan translates into measurable outcomes.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the role of urban planning in achieving climate resilience in cities like Mira Bhayander.
2. Discuss the impact of urbanisation on local ecosystems and biodiversity in metropolitan areas.
3. What strategies can be employed to improve water management in rapidly growing urban centres? Critically discuss.
4. Analyse the significance of community participation in the implementation of climate action plans. With suitable examples, discuss its impact.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the role of urban planning in achieving climate resilience in cities like Mira Bhayander.

1. Urban planning integrates climate considerations into land use, reducing vulnerability to climate impacts.
2. It promotes sustainable infrastructure, such as green buildings and renewable energy systems, enhancing resilience.
3. Effective zoning regulations can protect green spaces and biodiversity, maintaining ecosystem services.
4. Urban planning facilitates efficient waste management and water supply systems, crucial for climate adaptation.
5. Community engagement in planning processes ensures that local needs and knowledge inform climate resilience strategies.

2. Discuss the impact of urbanisation on local ecosystems and biodiversity in metropolitan areas.

1. Urbanisation leads to habitat loss, fragmenting ecosystems and reducing biodiversity.
2. Increased impervious surfaces contribute to runoff, affecting water quality and local aquatic ecosystems.
3. Urban heat islands emerge, altering local climates and affecting plant and animal species’ survival.
4. Pollution from urban areas can degrade air and soil quality, further threatening local flora and fauna.
5. However, urban areas can also create opportunities for green spaces and biodiversity conservation if planned thoughtfully.

3. What strategies can be employed to improve water management in rapidly growing urban centres? Critically discuss.

1. Implementing rainwater harvesting systems can enhance water supply and reduce runoff.
2. Upgrading aging water infrastructure minimizes leakages and improves distribution efficiency.
3. Establishing integrated water resource management approaches promotes sustainable usage and conservation.
4. Utilizing nature-based solutions, like wetlands and permeable pavements, can mitigate flooding and enhance groundwater recharge.
5. Community education on water conservation practices encourages responsible usage among residents.

4. Analyse the significance of community participation in the implementation of climate action plans. With suitable examples, discuss its impact.

1. Community participation encourages ownership and accountability, increasing the likelihood of successful implementation.
2. Involving residents in decision-making ensures that climate action plans reflect local needs and priorities.
3. Examples like community-led tree planting initiatives demonstrate effective local engagement in enhancing urban green cover.
4. Participatory monitoring can help track progress and adapt strategies based on community feedback.
5. Collaboration with local organizations can mobilize resources and expertise for implementing climate initiatives effectively.