Urban Adaptation in India: Strategies, Challenges, and Case Studies for Resilient Cities

Urban adaptation is an essential strategy for mitigating the effects of climate change in rapidly urbanizing nations like India. Many cities are facing climate change impacts like heatwaves, forest fires, floods, water scarcity and sea-level rise. Through this paper we will explore these problems and practices of urban adaptation with case studies of Indian cities. Through detailed case studies of Surat, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad, it analyzes the strategies implemented, the institutional mechanisms involved, and the challenges faced. The study reveals that successful adaptation depends on localized planning, inclusive governance, financial investment, and integration of nature-based solutions. The article concludes with policy recommendations to strengthen climate resilience in Indian cities.