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
Urban planning is listed in the 12th Schedule of the Constitution of India, so it falls within the domain of State Governments and Urban Local Bodies at the city level. The Government of India supports city planning through guidelines, advisories, financial assistance, and technical support rather than by replacing local responsibility.
The National Disaster Management Authority issued National Guidelines for Preparation of Action Plan—Prevention and Management of Heat Wave in 2019. The guidelines ask cities to assess vulnerability, identify factors behind the Urban Heat Island effect, and build mitigation measures into Heat Action Plans.
According to the Government of India, Heat Action Plans have been prepared by 23 states, 195 districts and 64 cities. The National Disaster Management Authority has also issued an advisory on protecting informal workers during heatwaves in Indian cities, with emphasis on health, safety, and gender-sensitive adaptation.
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