By Tanmay Sharma.
Photo Credit: The Suncity News.
Gurugram, June 11, 2026: In a significant step toward addressing climate change and urban heat challenges, the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) for the implementation of the Heat Resilient City project in Gurugram.
The initiative is being undertaken under the aegis of the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and aims to develop scientific, sustainable, and long-term solutions to tackle rising temperatures caused by rapid urbanization, climate change, and the Urban Heat Island effect.
The MCG Commissioner was present during the MoU signing event:
The MoU signing ceremony was attended by Pradeep Dahiya, Additional Municipal Commissioner Ravindra Yadav, Chief Engineer Vijay Dhaka, Executive Engineer Pradeep Kumar, representatives from KPMG, and officials from the National Institute of Urban Affairs.
Gurugram has been selected among 12 cities across the country chosen for the Heat Resilient Cities initiative.
Under the project, each selected city will receive financial assistance of up to Rs 5 crore to implement heat mitigation and climate adaptation measures suited to local requirements.
The primary objective of the initiative is to make urban centres more climate-resilient, environmentally sustainable and citizen-friendly while reducing the adverse impact of rising temperatures and extreme weather events.
As part of the project, a detailed scientific assessment will be conducted in Gurugram to identify areas experiencing unusually high temperatures and to map socio-economically vulnerable populations most affected by heat stress.
Experts will carry out Urban Heat Island assessments, heat mapping exercises, and vulnerability analyses across different parts of the city.
Based on these findings, authorities will prepare a comprehensive City Heat Resilience Action Plan for Gurugram.
Focus on green infrastructure and climate-responsive planning:
Under the initiative, the MCG will undertake several pilot projects aimed at reducing urban heat and improving environmental sustainability.
The proposed measures may include expansion of urban green spaces, promotion of water conservation, development of shaded public infrastructure, implementation of cool roof technologies, and adoption of climate-sensitive urban planning strategies.
Officials stated that the long-term goal is to regulate city temperatures, provide relief to residents from extreme heat, and create a healthier urban environment.
The detailed Heat Resilient City Framework and Action Plan will also be prepared under the project.
The framework is expected to guide future policy decisions and infrastructure planning while integrating climate risks into the City’s long-term development strategy.
Authorities further stated that the impact of the project would be scientifically evaluated so that successful models and practices could later be replicated in other cities.
Collaborative and community-based approach:
To ensure effective implementation, the MCG will work in collaboration with academic institutions, research organizations, non-governmental organizations, experts and citizen groups.
The official said the initiative would encourage community participation and help develop practical, locally relevant solutions for climate adaptation and heat management.
As per the terms of the MoU, the project will be implemented in phases over a period of 15 months.
The MCG will periodically submit progress reports, impact assessments, and utilization certificates to the NIUA and the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
Speaking on the occasion, MCG Commissioner Pradeep Dahiya said the project would play a key role in preparing Gurugram to face future climate challenges while improving the quality of life for citizens.
The use of scientific data, modern technology, innovation, and public participation will help reduce the impact of heat and promote sustainable urban development,” the MCG commissioner said.
He added that the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, the MCG is committed to transforming the city into a smart, green, safe, and climate-resilient urban centre.
Also Read: MCG signs MoU with A-PAG to improve air quality in Gurugram.
EOM.
