India is the second most populous country in the world. Its population has increased by more than 181 million during the 2001-2011 decade. Correspondingly, the urban population has increased from 286.1 million in 2001 to 377.2 million in 2011 an is expected to rise to 534 million by 2026. This population increase has led to enormous pressure on urban infrastructure, hinders their ability to adapt to climate change and affects the cities’ resilience to climate change.

This study examines the increasing rise in urban population in India and how this affect climate change. It attempts to develop a rapid assessment of vulnerability of cities by highlighting various risk exposures and vulnerability factors. The paper looks at 20 (in 14 states) out of the over 400 cities India.

The analysis shows that very high cyclonic wind velocities causing severe damage to tall flexible and sheeted residential and industrial structure may perhaps affect seven coastal cities. Also none of the 20 cities analysed had 100 per cent coverage of basic infrastructure like water supply, solid waste management and storm water drainage. The only resilient cities are those that have sustainable infrastructure, efficient governance and informed and capable citizens.

The paper therefore concludes by stating that the challenge of climate change can only be met if cities are healthy and sustainable under normal circumstances and makes the following recommendations:

Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR);
Rejuvenation of water bodies;
Climate conscious development and spatial planning;
Sustainable urban development indicators; and
Resource allocation