Climate-resilient designs and infrastructure can enhance the city’s capacity to withstand extreme weather events
Photo: Vikas Choudhary / CSE The British architect Edwin Lutyens created the plan for New Delhi in 1912, which was implemented in 1932. Lutyens’ plan, based on garden city principles, led to Delhi becoming predominantly urban, according to NITI Aayog’s Report on Urban Planning in India.
This urban nature of Delhi puts immense strain on public services and infrastructure, such as water supply, sanitation, waste management, housing, healthcare and education. The city faces challenges with seasonal encounters and floods during the monsoon season, highlighting India’s pressing need for effective urban planning.
Also read: Yamuna claims back Delhi: Several parts of capital witnessed floods after a generation
The population growth and unauthorised construction have congested the stormwater drains, overwhelming the outdated drainage system. Efforts to address the issue have been made, but previous plans lacked specificity and actionable recommendations.
Examining the obstacles faced in urban planning and proposing policies that promote sustainability in the aftermath of the recent flood is crucial to ensure a resilient and livable city that considers environmental and inclusivity concerns.
The recent deluge in Delhi has uncovered the flaws in urban planning, posing environmental and inclusivity concerns. Inadequate drainage infrastructure that cannot cope with heavy rainfall is the first hurdle. Haphazard urban expansion and encroachment on natural water bodies aggravate the crisis.
Pollution and climate change further compound the problem, with air pollution reducing water absorption and extreme weather events increasing infrastructure vulnerability.
Moreover, rapid urbanisation has resulted in a scarcity of affordable housing and amenities, leaving vulnerable populations in informal settlements susceptible to flooding. Inclusive urban planning is crucial to address these disparities and ensure equal access to housing and services.
Factors like the loss of water bodies, excessive concrete, encroachment on drains and untreated waste discharge exacerbate recurring flooding in different parts of Delhi. However, a new drainage master plan is not expected before the 2025 monsoon.
A city plagued by recurring waterlogging must urgently upgrade its drainage master plan. Various transformative measures are necessary to address the urban planning challenges in Delhi.
First, implementing Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) is crucial. The city can enhance water absorption, minimise surface run-offs and replenish groundwater by integrating permeable pavements, green roofs and rainwater harvesting. The impacts of floods can be mitigated by incorporating SuDS techniques into the urban landscape and bolstering the city’s resilience against extreme weather events.
Preserving and revitalising water bodies and wetlands is another critical step. Safeguarding these natural resources will enable better water management, including natural water retention and biodiversity conservation. Enforcing stringent regulations to prevent encroachments is essential for preserving these vital ecosystems.
Additionally, integrating green and climate-responsive infrastructure is pivotal for promoting sustainability. Introducing green spaces, vertical gardens and increased tree cover throughout the city will regulate temperatures, reduce air pollution and combat the urban heat island effect. Incorporating climate-resilient designs and infrastructure will ensure the city can withstand the impacts of severe weather events.
Lastly, inclusive planning and affordable housing are fundamental for a sustainable city. Prioritising inclusive development means providing access to affordable housing and essential amenities for all residents. Involving marginalised communities and vulnerable groups in collaborative planning will address their specific needs and empower them to participate in decision-making.
Delhi is at a crucial juncture, facing the aftermath of heavy rains and flooding. The length of its natural (426.55 km) and engineered stormwater (3314.54 km) drain networks underscores the need for immediate action in urban planning. By embracing inclusive and sustainable approaches, involving all stakeholders and implementing measures to protect the environment, Delhi can forge a path towards an inclusive and livable city.
The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation & Urban Transformation (AMRUT), among other initiatives, aims to provide essential services to households and addresses stormwater drainage. However, to achieve Delhi’s vision of sustainability and equality, the government must strategically and optimally leverage effective schemes, plans and policies.
As we move forward, let us remember the words of Jane Jacobs: “Cities have the capability of providing something for everybody, only because and only when, they are created by everybody.” By working together and adopting comprehensive solutions, Delhi can unlock authentic and solution-led urban development, ensuring a better future for all its residents.
Vipin Juneja is a senior Public Policy consultant and Sumit Kaushik is a PhD candidate at OP Jindal Global University and a Social Impact Consultant.
Views expressed are the authors’ own and don’t necessarily reflect those of Down To Earth
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