Reference:

• In July 2025, the World Bank, in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, released the report titled "Towards Resilient and Prosperous Cities in India."

Key Findings:

• India’s urban population is projected to nearly double to 951 million by 2050, requiring over 144 million new homes by 2070.
• Rapid urban development has caused urban heat island effects, raising city temperatures 3–4 °C higher than surrounding areas, and reduced stormwater absorption increases flood risk.
• The study covered 24 cities, including Chennai, Indore, New Delhi, Lucknow, Surat, and Thiruvananthapuram, finding that adaptation measures could avert annual flood losses of $5 billion by 2030 and $30 billion by 2070.
• Climate–resilient investment can save over 130,000 lives by 2050.
• India needs over $2.4 trillion investment by 2050 in high-quality, low-carbon infrastructure—with significant private sector participation.
• Investment should focus on housing, transport, solid waste management, and flood resistant urban services.

Key Recommendations:

• Implement cool roofs, green belts, and effective early warning systems to mitigate heat and flood risks.
• Invest in energy-efficient, climate resilient infrastructure and housing.
• Develop flood resistant urban transportation systems.
• Enhance urban financial resources through increased private sector participation.

Examples:

• Ahmedabad developed a Heat Action Plan to reduce temperature impacts and accommodate outdoor workers.
• Kolkata launched a city-level flood forecasting and warning system.
• Indore invested in modern solid waste management.
• Chennai implemented a climate action plan based on comprehensive risk assessment.

The World Bank:

• Also known as the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD).
• It is an international financial institution that provides loans, financial advice, and technical assistance to developing countries.
• Comprises five institutions working to eliminate poverty and promote shared prosperity.
• Established: 1944
• Headquarters: Washington D.C.
• Current President: Ajay Banga
• Objective: Reduce poverty and promote sustainable development in developing countries
• Functions: Finances development projects, provides technical assistance, and offers policy advice
• Motto: "Working for a World Free of Poverty"

Five Member Institutions:

1. IBRD (International Bank for Reconstruction and Development): Provides loans and financial advice to middle- and creditworthy low-income countries.
2. IDA (International Development Association): Offers interest-free loans, grants, and technical assistance to the world's poorest countries.
3. IFC (International Finance Corporation): Invests in the private sector and provides financial advice to companies.
4. MIGA (Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency): Promotes foreign direct investment in developing countries.
5. ICSID (International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes): Deals with investment-related dispute resolution.

Major Published Reports: