How climate-resilient infrastructure can shape India's future

Time of India

17-07-2025

India is in the process of a major infrastructure transformation. Launched in 2019, the
National Infrastructure Pipeline
(NIP) was set up to invest $1.5 trillion (₹111 lakh crore) across critical sectors such as energy, transport, water, and urban development between 2020 and 2025. As of early 2024, 21% of projects were completed and approximately 46% were under implementation. With the NIP nearing its conclusion, the government is expected to announce a fresh five-year roadmap later this year to further accelerate development.
India's urban population is projected to nearly double, from 432 million in 2021 to 820 million by 2047. Much of this growth is happening in Tier II and III cities. However, this urban expansion is unfolding against the backdrop of increasingly frequent and severe climate events that bring with it new challenges. As new infrastructure takes shape, there's a clear need to make it stronger and better prepared for climate-related risks. Building with climate resilience in mind is no longer optional—it's essential for long-term impact.
Climate vulnerabilities and risks
Under the Smart Cities Mission, over 100 cities across India—including newer hubs like Dharamsala, Hubballi-Dharwad, and Davanagere—are being equipped with modern infrastructure. As these cities evolve, the threat of extreme weather events makes it crucial to embed climate resilience into every layer of planning.
According to the Climate Risk Index, India ranks sixth globally among countries most affected by extreme weather events over the last three decades, with over 400 events leading to more than 80,000 deaths and economic losses amounting to $180 billion.
A recent study by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) reveals that nearly 57% of Indian districts, housing 76% of the population, are at high to very high risk from extreme heat. These statistics highlight the critical importance of integrating climate resilience into infrastructure planning to safeguard communities and sustain economic development.
Embedding climate resilience in infrastructure planning
Embedding climate resilience into infrastructure planning is no longer optional—it is a strategic necessity to safeguard communities, economies, and ecosystems in a rapidly changing climate. This calls for a paradigm shift from reactive infrastructure development to anticipatory, risk-informed planning. Climate resilience must be woven into every stage of development, and this begins with rethinking how projects are conceived, designed, and executed. A few high-impact strategies include:
Integrating blue-green infrastructure
Thoughtful use of landscape features like rain gardens, bioswales, green roofs, and urban forests not only manage stormwater and reduce urban heat but also enhance biodiversity and liveability in densely built environments.
Mainstreaming decentralised renewable and water systems
Embedding rooftop solar, water harvesting, and on-site wastewater recycling into project infrastructure reduces pressure on public utilities and enhances resilience against service disruptions.
Leveraging technology and climate risk mapping
Using data-driven tools—such as GIS-based climate risk assessments and smart building systems—enables developers and city planners to make informed, adaptive decisions that anticipate future environmental stresses.
Benefits of climate-resilient infrastructure
The transition to climate-resilient infrastructure brings wide-ranging benefits that go beyond environmental protection. Economically, it significantly lowers the lifecycle costs of assets by reducing the need for frequent maintenance and disaster-related repairs, potentially cutting long-term infrastructure expenses by up to 70%.
Beyond cost savings, climate-smart infrastructure also improves public health and creates new job opportunities. Buildings that use natural ventilation, non-toxic materials, and efficient cooling systems not only reduce energy use but also provide healthier indoor environments—critical in a country facing rising heatwaves and air pollution. According to the Green Industry Outlook report by TeamLease Digital, the green transition is expected to generate nearly 50 million new jobs in sectors such as clean energy, construction, and environmental services, contributing up to $15 trillion to India's economy. These combined benefits make investing in climate resilience not just wise—but essential for the country's long-term growth and well-being.
Integration with national policies and global commitments
India is steadily aligning its infrastructure vision with climate resilience through emerging national policies and initiatives. The
National Adaptation Plan
(NAP) integrates climate risks into long-term planning and mobilizes private finance for adaptive infrastructure, particularly in vulnerable urban areas. At the local level, initiatives like Patna's Samagra Udyan Yojana are transforming cityscapes with green corridors, riverfront gardens, and eco-friendly materials, setting templates for sustainable urban development.
At a global level, India continues to lead with the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), which promotes climate-proof infrastructure across sectors. These efforts reinforce India's commitment to SDG 13 (Climate Action) and the Paris Agreement, ensuring that future infrastructure is not only sustainable but also equipped to handle the intensifying impacts of climate change.
Conclusion
As India continues its rapid urbanization, integrating climate resilience into infrastructure planning is not just an environmental imperative but an economic and social necessity. By adopting green certifications, leveraging supportive policies, and embracing digital innovations, India can build infrastructure that not only withstands climate challenges but also promotes sustainable growth and improved quality of life for its citizens.