Shade as Strategy

As Kashmir warms even in late winter, business houses can step forward with smart shade strategies that protect assets and future growth.

- Mutaharra A W Deva

Business leaders in Kashmir now work in a reality where climate conditions influence every serious decision.

Heat waves grow stronger and last longer each year. Urban areas often record temperatures three to seven degrees higher than nearby rural belts.

This gradual rise increases cooling demand and puts pressure on electricity systems and company budgets.

Most Indian promoters, bankers, private equity firms, and board members understand that climate risk affects daily operations, asset value, and long term investment plans.

Tree planting in cities once looked like a municipal responsibility. But today, it stands out as a smart business decision.

It connects directly with employee performance, energy costs, building life, ESG disclosures, and brand reputation.

Urban forestry gives companies a practical way to build climate counter response. Extreme heat already reduces productivity in sectors like manufacturing, logistics, and construction.

It increases cooling expenses, raises insurance costs, and speeds up wear and tear on infrastructure. It also brings health concerns and stronger ESG scrutiny.

Industrial hubs in Delhi NCR, Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Srinagar face clear urban heat island risks. Boards now include heat exposure in physical climate risk reporting under global disclosure standards and India’s Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting framework.