MoHUA and NDMA measures to mitigate Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect and protect vulnerable groups in Indian cities
NDMA and MoHUA are integrating urban heat mitigation into Heat Action Plans, climate-responsive planning, and city infrastructure reforms.
- Urban planning is a function of State Governments and Urban Local Bodies under the 12th Schedule of the Constitution of India.
- The National Disaster Management Authority’s 2019 heat-wave guidelines require vulnerability assessment and integration of mitigation measures into Heat Action Plans.
- Delhi SAPCC 2.0 uses climate vulnerability assessment to identify heat stress as a major risk for public health, infrastructure and livelihoods.
- NDMA’s advisory recommends shaded vending zones, hydration facilities, cooling centers, flexible working hours and timely heat alerts for street vendors and other outdoor workers.
What happened
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and the National Disaster Management Authority have highlighted a set of measures to reduce the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect and protect vulnerable groups in Indian cities. The policy direction combines Heat Action Plans, climate vulnerability assessment, cooling-oriented urban design, and support for outdoor workers.
Background and earlier position
UPSC can frame the issue around the Urban Heat Island effect, Heat Action Plans, the role of Urban Local Bodies under the Constitution, and the need for climate-responsive urban planning. A Mains answer can also discuss the trade-off between rapid urbanisation and thermal comfort, equity for informal workers, and the integration of green-blue infrastructure into city design.
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