World Bank: Indian Cities Need Autonomy for Climate Action

• 24 Jul 2025

On 22nd July 2025, the World Bank launched a report on urban climate resilience in collaboration with the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, emphasizing the need for greater decision-making autonomy for Indian cities to effectively tackle climate change.

Key Points

• Autonomy for Action: India, cities with more local governance powers have outperformed others in building climate resilience.
• $2.4 Trillion Needed: The report estimates that Indian cities will require $2.4 trillion by 2050 to build climate-resilient infrastructure and services.
• Urbanisation and Climate Risks: India’s urban population is projected to reach 951 million by 2050. By 2030, cities will contribute 70% of new employment but will also face severe risks like pluvial flooding and extreme heat.
• Flood Loss Projections: Annual losses from urban flooding could reach $5 billion by 2030 and $30 billion by 2070.
• Heat Stress Rising: Exposure to extreme heat in 10 major cities rose by 71% between the 1980s and 2010s.
• Public Health Impact: Heat-related deaths could exceed 3 lakh annually by 2050. However, measures like cool roofs, urban greening, and revised working hours could save 1.3 lakh lives.