Urban Heat Management in Indian Cities

Urbanisation in India has led to warming in cities. This warming is primarily due to reduced vegetation, heat-retaining materials, and increased energy demands. The Government of India, through various initiatives, is working to mitigate the urban heat island effect and promote sustainable urban development.

Urban Planning Framework

Urban planning in India falls under the jurisdiction of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) as per the 12th Schedule of the Constitution. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) provides support through schemes and advisories. These efforts aim to enhance urban living conditions and address environmental challenges.

Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT)

The AMRUT initiative focuses on developing green spaces to combat urban heat. It has approved 2,429 park projects worth ₹5,044.28 crore, contributing 5,044 acres of green space. Additionally, 1,729 projects worth ₹1,027.62 crore have been approved under AMRUT 2.0, promoting urban greenery.

Water Body Rejuvenation Projects

MoHUA has also approved 3,078 water body rejuvenation projects valued at ₹6,159.29 crore. These projects aim to restore and enhance water bodies, which are crucial for urban ecosystems and climate resilience.

Model Building Bye-Laws (MBBL)

In 2023, MoHUA issued an addendum to the MBBL 2016. This addendum aligns with the India Cooling Action Plan 2019. It serves as an advisory to states on sustainable building practices and energy efficiency.

Urban Green Guidelines 2014

The Urban Green Guidelines released by MoHUA provide a framework for states to develop green spaces. These guidelines emphasise the importance of integrating greenery into urban planning to reduce heat and improve air quality.

Climate Smart Cities Assessment Framework (CSCAF)

Launched in 2019, the CSCAF evaluates cities on their climate preparedness. It assesses energy efficiency, water management, waste management, and green cover. This framework aims to guide cities in developing effective climate adaptation strategies.

Cities Readiness Report 3.0

According to the Cities Readiness Report 3.0, 95 cities have developed disaster management plans. Additionally, 85 cities meet the URDPFI norm of over 12% green cover. This indicates progress in urban resilience and sustainability.

Climate Change Impact

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has reported that human activities have caused global warming. The global surface temperature has risen by 1.1°C above pre-industrial levels. India’s average annual temperature has also shown an increasing trend of 0.64°C per century from 1901 to 2022.

National Communication to UNFCCC

In 2023, India submitted its Third National Communication to the UNFCCC. This document marks the country’s climate change impacts and responses. It puts stress on the need for urgent action to mitigate climate risks.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the role of urban planning in addressing climate change in India.
2. Discuss the significance of the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation in enhancing urban green spaces.
3. Critically discuss the impact of urban heat islands on city dwellers and the environment.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the relationship between urbanisation and global warming in the context of developing countries.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the role of urban planning in addressing climate change in India.

1. Urban planning is governed by the 12th Schedule of the Constitution, emphasizing the role of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).
2. MoHUA provides frameworks and guidelines to integrate climate considerations into urban planning.
3. Programs like AMRUT focus on developing green spaces and sustainable infrastructure to combat climate impacts.
4. CSCAF evaluates cities on climate preparedness, guiding urban development towards resilience.
5. Urban Green Guidelines promote green cover, enhancing air quality and reducing heat in urban areas.

2. Discuss the significance of the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation in enhancing urban green spaces.

1. AMRUT aims to develop parks and green spaces, addressing urban heat island effects.
2. 2,429 park projects worth ₹5,044.28 crore have been approved, adding substantial green cover.
3. It promotes community engagement and improves urban biodiversity through green initiatives.
4. Green spaces enhance residents’ quality of life by providing recreational areas and improving mental health.
5. AMRUT 2.0 continues this effort with additional funding for urban greenery and sustainability projects.

3. Critically discuss the impact of urban heat islands on city dwellers and the environment.

1. Urban heat islands lead to higher temperatures in cities, affecting public health and comfort.
2. Increased energy demands for cooling contribute to higher greenhouse gas emissions.
3. Heat islands exacerbate air pollution, negatively impacting respiratory health and urban ecosystems.
4. Vulnerable populations, including the elderly and low-income groups, face heightened risks during heat waves.
5. Mitigation strategies like green spaces and water bodies can alleviate these effects and improve urban resilience.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the relationship between urbanisation and global warming in the context of developing countries.

1. Urbanisation leads to deforestation and reduced vegetation, contributing to increased carbon emissions.
2. In cities like Delhi, rapid urban growth has resulted in air pollution and heat retention.
3. Infrastructure development often prioritizes concrete and asphalt, which exacerbate heat islands.
4. Developing countries face challenges in balancing economic growth and environmental sustainability.
5. Examples include initiatives like AMRUT in India, which aim to integrate green practices in urban development.