Ludhiana Selected for Heat-Resilient Pilot Project
The National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) has chosen Ludhiana as one of 12 cities in India for a pilot project aimed at mitigating the growing impact of heat waves. The Municipal Corporation Ludhiana (MCL) will receive Rs 5 crore from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) to implement measures including cool and green roofs on residential and public buildings, additional hydration points, public toilets, and upgraded weather-monitoring systems.
Project Details and Timeline
Municipal Commissioner Ojasvi Alankar told The Tribune that the project targets 'Heat Resilient Cities' that have recorded significantly higher temperatures than nearby rural areas. The initiative will be implemented over 15 months, with the primary objective of enabling the city to become heat-resilient and climate-responsive through proper planning. Alankar cited Zone D as an example of an area with relatively better green cover compared to densely populated pockets in Zone A or B.
Focus on Vulnerable Populations
The emphasis will be on providing relief to vulnerable sections of society, including those who cannot afford coolers or air conditioners. Before initiating projects, the MCL will conduct a city-level baseline assessment of heat-stress hotspots. The grant will fund the installation of cool and green roofs, creation of shaded public areas, and expansion of public toilets.
Expected Impact and Criticism
Alankar stated that the initiative will help improve the city's ability to deal with climate change while enhancing citizens' standard of living. He added that scientific changes combined with modern technology and innovation can help reduce the impact of heat waves, particularly in industrial cities like Ludhiana. However, environmentalist and agricultural scientist Devinder Sharma expressed skepticism, questioning the benefit of such schemes when green cover has been mercilessly cut. He asked why governments cannot focus on preserving trees and green cover instead, suggesting that rooftop greenery in a few pockets may not serve the entire purpose in Ludhiana.
