Urbanisation in India has often been unplanned, leading to environmental degradation and strained resources. According to NITI Aayog, 65% of Indian cities lack a master plan, exacerbating the challenges posed by rapid urbanisation. Major cities like Chennai, Kolkata, and Mumbai have already reached critical levels of environmental degradation. The National Mission on Sustainable Habitat (NMSH) underscores the need for development planning, but practical application and compliance remain insufficient. Addressing these issues requires a proactive policy approach to sustainable infrastructure development, balancing Environmental Protection and economic progress for long-term prosperity.

Impact of Climate Change

Climate change further strains India's infrastructure, with increased frequency of heatwaves and water shortages in cities like Bengaluru. As climate events grow more severe, the urgency for climate-resilient infrastructure in Indian cities becomes apparent. Integrating climate concerns into infrastructure development necessitates comprehensive planning and supportive policies. Sustainable infrastructure must anticipate future adversities and minimise environmental impact.

Cities need to develop knowledge management frameworks to tackle the evolving challenges of climate change and urbanisation. Efficient and sustainable resource use relies on location-specific knowledge, best generated and understood locally. Comprehensive data collection is essential to grasp the hyperlocal needs and challenges, enabling the creation of sustainable solutions.

Challenges and Solutions for Sustainable Development

The successful transformation of Indian cities into planned spaces for sustainable development depends on the effective implementation of policies. Departments often operate in silos, independently focusing on resources like water, transport, and energy, which complicates outcomes. A more comprehensive approach is necessary to utilise limited resources efficiently and address sustainability challenges holistically. Recent literature highlights the nexus between water, food, and energy, but scalability and application remain institutional challenges in Indian cities.

Incentives for increased food production can lead to higher water consumption and energy demand. Similarly, boosting energy supply may cause water shortages for irrigation and consumption. Aligning different sectors and considering their interdependencies at the city level is crucial for long-term sustainable development. This holistic approach ensures the efficient use of resources and meets the demands of an expanding population.

Public-Private Partnerships

Collaboration between the public and private sectors is vital for developing climate-resilient infrastructure in Indian cities. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) are essential for addressing funding needs for low-carbon and energy-efficient development. However, innovative funding methods are required to attract private investment. The government must establish clear regulatory frameworks and innovative incentives for private investment in long-term sustainable infrastructure.

Conclusion

Indian cities are at the heart of the country's growth story but also face the challenges of a rapidly rising population and climate change. Developing infrastructure to support an additional 456 million people by 2050 requires a comprehensive and integrated policy framework. Institutions must collaborate to anticipate and prepare for the needs of an expanding population sustainably. By balancing environmental protection and economic progress, and leveraging public-private partnerships, India can transform its urban centres into sustainable, resilient cities for the future. Learn about the challenges and solutions in this regard, here.