Future Cities: A Strategic Urban Resilience Framework for Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh (UP), India’s most populous and economically significant state, is at a crossroads. As its cities expand rapidly, the state faces intensifying climate risks—from extreme heat and urban flooding to water stress and public health crises. While UP is a key driver of India’s economic growth, its long-term progress hinges on building resilience against these climate threats.

The Uttar Pradesh government has taken important steps to address climate challenges, including revising and implementing the Uttar Pradesh State Action Plan on Climate Change (UPSAPCC) and aligning with the UP SDG Vision 2030. However, while mitigation efforts have gained traction, climate adaptation remains a critical gap. Urban planning and infrastructure development must now integrate robust adaptation strategies to protect lives, livelihoods, and economic stability.

Recognising this urgency, ORF and Dasra have launched a collaborative initiative to develop a Resilient Cities Action Plan for Four Cities in Uttar Pradesh. This action plan will provide sector-specific recommendations—analysing key urban vulnerabilities, identifying gaps, and building resilience. By convening key stakeholders, the initiative aims to drive systemic, locally relevant solutions for climate-proofing UP’s cities.

As a first step, ORF and Dasra will host an Inception Workshop on March 11, 2025, in New Delhi. The workshop will bring together policymakers, experts, and organisations to shape the strategic direction of the Resilient Cities Action Plan. The discussions will lay the groundwork for a comprehensive framework that ensures UP’s cities are not only growth engines but also resilient, inclusive, and prepared for a climate-uncertain future—contributing to the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

Programme