As Indian cities continue to face rising temperatures and frequent heatwaves, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting climate-resilient urban development through planning guidelines, technical support, and sustainable housing initiatives. Since urban planning is a State subject under the Constitution, the Centre supports States and Urban Local Bodies through policy frameworks, financial assistance, and advisory measures.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has prepared the National Guidelines for Prevention and Management of Heat Waves (2019), encouraging cities to identify urban heat island hotspots and incorporate mitigation measures into Heat Action Plans (HAPs). According to the government, Heat Action Plans have already been prepared by 23 States, 195 districts, and 64 cities. NDMA has also issued an advisory to protect informal workers during heatwaves by recommending shaded vending zones, hydration facilities, cooling centres, flexible working hours, and timely heat alerts.
MoHUA’s Urban Green Guidelines, 2014 and URDPFI Guidelines, 2014 promote compact urban development, green infrastructure, urban forests, water body conservation, and climate-responsive planning to reduce heat stress. Under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban (PMAY-U), the Technology & Innovation Sub-Mission encourages the use of green, energy-efficient, disaster-resilient, and climate-responsive building technologies to improve thermal comfort and reduce environmental impact. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change’s India Cooling Action Plan (ICAP) further supports sustainable cooling through energy-efficient public infrastructure and environmentally responsible cooling technologies.
The information was provided by Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, Shri Tokhan Sahu, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha.
Join our WhatsApp Channel for fastest updates: Join now