Bengaluru Takes Action Against Rising Temperatures with Urban Heat Island Mitigation Plan
Bengaluru is confronting a pressing environmental challenge as escalating temperatures transform parts of its once-temperate landscape into urban heat traps. In response, the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) has launched the initial phase of a comprehensive, data-driven strategy aimed at identifying and mitigating these urban heat islands. This initiative involves collaboration with organizations such as Sensing Local and Hasiru Dala to address the city's growing thermal discomfort.
Identifying Key Hotspots and Pilot Projects
As part of this pilot programme, critical hotspots have been pinpointed, including the Peenya Industrial Area and Hennur Bande in HBR Layout. Based on the outcomes from this first phase, the strategy will be expanded to other regions across Bengaluru. Hennur Bande, previously a stone quarry, has been converted into a 10-acre flat parcel surrounded by a 20-acre buffer zone. Authorities now intend to repurpose this underutilised land into a climate-responsive urban park designed to enhance air quality, increase green cover, and reduce localised temperatures.
Pommala Sunil Kumar, Bengaluru North City Corporation commissioner, explained, "This initiative is part of the heat resilience programme under the C40 Cities mission. Bengaluru was selected among 33 other C40 Cities even before GBA's formation, with two major heat islands identified — Peenya Industrial Area and Hennur Bande." Satellite data revealed that Hennur Bande recorded a mean land surface temperature of 37°C during the peak summer months of March to May 2024.
Challenges and Redesigns in Urban Planning
Originally, officials proposed developing a five-acre Miyawaki forest at the Hennur Bande site. However, resistance from local residents, who advocated for retaining open play areas, necessitated a redesign. "We have now created a plan to accommodate both the playground and the forest. Rs 20 crore has been allocated under the climate action wing," Kumar added. This adjustment highlights the balance between environmental goals and community needs in urban development.
Underlying Causes and Ecological Impact
Rapid urbanisation has significantly contributed to the urban heat island (UHI) effect, with a surge in impermeable surfaces exacerbating temperature rises. Compounding this issue is a severe shortage of green space, currently at just 1 square meter per capita. The redevelopment efforts aim to expand tree canopy cover, leveraging evapotranspiration and shading to create cooler microclimates.
Over the past five years, Bengaluru's maximum temperatures have steadily increased. A report by Sensing Local and Hasiru Dala indicates alarming trends: a 1,078% increase in built-up area, alongside an 88% decline in vegetation and a 79% reduction in waterbodies. This shift from porous landscapes to paved surfaces has disrupted the city's ecology, hydrology, and overall liveability, making heat mitigation strategies increasingly urgent.
Health Risks for Outdoor Workers and Economic Implications
The intensifying heat poses significant health risks and economic losses for outdoor workers, including construction labourers, pourakarmikas, street vendors, and traffic police. Rajendra KV, Bengaluru West city corporation commissioner, noted, "Over 73% of sanitation workers operate during peak heat hours, and 92% reported heat significantly affects their work, with women facing greater difficulty. Employees report difficulty breathing, dehydration, and fatigue." These challenges underscore the need for immediate interventions to protect vulnerable populations.
Developing Cooling Infrastructure and Public Relief Zones
To combat these effects, the administration is developing a network of cooling infrastructure. Two primary health centres in Hegganahalli and Tippenahalli are being upgraded into dedicated cooling centres, equipped with drinking water, shaded rest areas, and public awareness materials. Additionally, the city plans to repurpose existing public assets into heat relief zones, including:
- 163 Indira Canteens
- 109 Namma Clinics
- 143 urban primary health centres
This multifaceted approach aims to provide accessible respite from the heat while raising awareness about heat-related health issues. As Bengaluru grapples with its changing climate, these initiatives represent critical steps toward enhancing urban resilience and improving quality of life for all residents.
