IPE Global and Esri India Launches Climate Risk Observatories Amid Escalating Climate Threats

In a groundbreaking study conducted by IPE Global and Esri India has revealed that over 85% of Indian districts are now exposed to extreme climate events such as cyclones, floods, droughts, and heat waves. As part of their comprehensive response, IPE Global and Esri India have announced the establishment of Climate Risk Observatories (CROs) to tackle the growing threat of climate change in India. The initiative aims to create hyper-local risk assessments and offer crucial tools to policy-makers at the national, state, district, and city levels.

The study emphasizes the alarming increase in the frequency and intensity of climate events in India over the past five decades. With a four-fold increase in such events, the nation is facing unprecedented climate-induced challenges, including a disturbing trend known as "swapping," where traditionally flood-prone areas are becoming drought-prone and vice versa.

The Need for Climate Risk Observatories

Esri India's Managing Director, Agendra Kumar, highlighted the crucial role of Geographic Information System (GIS) technology in tackling climate challenges. "Building climate resilience requires a balance between adaptation and mitigation. GIS technology, with its advanced spatial analysis tools, allows for a deep understanding of geographic data to help predict future climate projections and plan efficient intervention approaches," he said.

The Climate Risk Observatories will provide a hyper-granular view of climate risks, enabling real-time risk assessments that take into account local climate data. These observatories aim to empower decision-makers at every level, allowing them to prepare for climate risks with greater accuracy. In a nation where more than 1.47 billion people are expected to be highly exposed to extreme climate events by 2036, the need for such detailed, localized data has never been greater.

Abinash Mohanty, Head of Climate Change and Sustainability at IPE Global and lead author of the study emphasized that these observatories would also support India's efforts in scaling climate resilience projects, especially in vulnerable sectors such as agriculture and infrastructure.

Carbon Emissions and Climate Impact

The conversation at the conference also touched on the role of carbon emissions in exacerbating climate change. While the study does not directly monitor industry-specific carbon outputs, the Climate Risk Observatory will consider carbon emission scenarios under different temperature rise projections, including the 1.5°C and 2°C pathways outlined by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

Though the observatories will not measure emissions by industry, the collaboration between IPE Global and Esri India aims to foster a broader understanding of how carbon emissions are accelerating climate risks, especially at the local level. Abinash Mohanty noted that current climate readiness at the subnational level remains inadequate, underscoring the need for better tools to evaluate climate resilience strategies in key sectors.

Establishment of an Infrastructure Climate Fund

The study also proposes the creation of an Infrastructure Climate Fund (ICF), which would support sustained investments in building climate-resilient infrastructure. This fund aims to provide resources to local governments and communities for conducting their own studies and devising climate action plans that focus on mitigating risks from extreme events.

"The ICF will serve as a critical financial mechanism to empower communities and governments to make timely investments in resilience projects," Mohanty said. By focusing on both technological and social solutions, the ICF hopes to mitigate the adverse effects of climate disasters while bolstering sustainable development across India.

Looking Ahead

With the establishment of the Climate Risk Observatories and the proposed Infrastructure Climate Fund, India is taking a significant step towards addressing the growing threat of climate change. The hyper-local assessments provided by these observatories will not only aid in preparedness but also contribute to global climate adaptation efforts.

The study’s findings further highlight the pressing need for immediate action, as 85% of Indian districts are now facing compounded risks from multiple climate extremes. The deployment of GIS-driven solutions offers a powerful tool for navigating the complexities of climate change, making the observatories a critical part of India’s future climate strategy.