Varanasi Heat Action Plan – India
Organization: Varanasi Nagar Nigam, Department of Medical Health & Family Welfare, Mahila Housing Trust (MHT), NRDC India & Indian Institute of Public Health Gandhinagar (IIPHG)
Year: 2025

The Varanasi Heat Action Plan is a collaborative initiative between the Varanasi Nagar Nigam, Department of Medical Health & Family Welfare, Mahila Housing Trust (MHT), NRDC India, and the Indian Institute of Public Health Gandhinagar (IIPHG). This comprehensive plan aims to protect communities from the escalating risks of extreme heat by implementing science-backed, equity-focused interventions. Key features include ward-level heat vulnerability mapping, future climate trend projections (2025–2050), community-led cooling solutions, and targeted public health measures for high-footfall areas such as ghats and informal settlements. The plan emphasizes inclusive urban planning, integrating passive cooling techniques like cool roofs and reflective paints to mitigate urban heat island effects. By fostering strong interdepartmental coordination and community engagement, the Varanasi Heat Action Plan sets a precedent for climate-resilient urban governance in India.