Heat Wave Preparedness Measures in Delhi Informal Settlements

What is the humanitarian need?

The project is addressing the challenge of extreme heat waves and the adverse impacts that they have on urban poor communities in Delhi, India. It will focus primarily on addressing structural issues within homes to minimize the impact of heat waves. The project will also focus on local community sensitizations and non-structural interventions to protect people from the impact of extreme heat when outside of the home.

What is the innovative solution?

The solution is split into two parts.

1. Structural solutions – installation of agri bio panels or heat insulators in the walls and roofs of 30 selected houses located in urban settlements. This reduces the impact of heat waves on those who are particularly vulnerable such as the elderly, pregnant women, children, the seriously ill, and those with disabilities.
2. Non-structural solutions – awareness raising and sensitization on heat wave preparedness measures. This will develop an understanding of the dangers of heat waves amongst the urban poor community, strengthening the ability of the community to reduce the impact of extreme heat when they are outside the home. This outreach work will be enhanced through storytelling and other visual components. This model will eventually be handed over to local administrations for upscale and expansion.

What are the expected outcomes?

1. The project will produce 30 model heat wave resilient houses in urban settlements where heat insulators or agri bio panels will reduce the impact of extreme heat on the households.
2. A basic understanding of heat wave preparedness measures will be developed in the urban poor community.
3. Coordination with local officials, Government departments, CSO networks for their involvement in value addition upscale & expansion.