Why in the News?
The World Bank’s report, “Towards Resilient and Prosperous Cities in India”, warns that climate risks like extreme heat and floods threaten India’s cities, despite their role as economic growth engines.
About the ‘Towards Resilient and Prosperous Cities in India’ Report
- Prepared By: World Bank in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
- Focus: Evaluates Indian cities’ exposure to climate risks like heatwaves and urban flooding
- Scope: Covers 24 cities with deeper analysis of Chennai, Indore, New Delhi, Lucknow, Surat, and Thiruvananthapuram
- Support: Backed by Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR)
Key Highlights:
- Urban Growth:
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- 70% of new jobs to emerge in urban areas by 2030
- Urban population to nearly double to 951 million by 2050
- Estimated housing demand: 144 million new homes by 2070
- Climate Vulnerabilities:
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- Urban heat: City temperatures rising by 3–4°C due to the heat island effect
- Flood risk: Rapid construction limiting natural drainage and stormwater absorption
- Investment Needs: $2.4 trillion required by 2050 for low-carbon, climate-resilient infrastructure
- Recommendations:
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- Promote cool roofs, urban green spaces, and early warning systems
- Invest in energy-efficient housing, flood-resilient transport, and waste systems
- Strengthen urban financial systems and incentivize private participation
Back2Basics: World Bank
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| [UPSC 2025] The World Bank warned that India could become one of the first places where wet-bulb temperatures routinely exceed 35°C. Which of the following statements best reflect(s) the implication of the above-said report?
I. Peninsular India will most likely suffer from flooding, tropical cyclones and droughts. II. The survival of animals including humans will be affected as shedding of their body heat through perspiration becomes difficult. Select the correct answer using the code given below. Options: (a) I only (b) II only* (c) Both I and II (d) Neither I nor II |
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