Urban parks and forests with a diminished sense of beauty : Dr. M. Suresh Babu, President, Federation of Residential Welfare Association

(Capital Information) Hyderabad, Apr 7 : On one hand, cities contribute significantly to carbon emissions that exacerbate climate change. On the other hand, cities are significantly affected by climate disasters.

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The Global Climate Risk Index re leased in 2021 ranked India as the 7th most affected country from climate-related extreme weather events (storms, floods, heat waves, etc.). Studies suggest that poor planning and urban management cost Indian cities between $2.6 and $13 bil lion annually. Cities are lagging behind in addressing both ur banization and climate change.

To strengthen climate-re silient urban development, a comprehensive understand ing of urban development from a climate perspective is crucial. The Smart Cities As sessment Framework launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs aims to address this gap. Flora and fauna species in urban areas are now completely extinct. With in creased urbanization in urban areas, the existence of di verse species in the city is under threat.

There is a need to take strategic steps to integrate urban biodiversity conserva tion in the planning sector. As cities are expanding rapidly, people are now realising the value of open space, parks and gardens for relaxation, peace of mind, recreation and clean air. Cities are turning into concrete jungles, hence people are now realising the importance of open space, parks and gardens for relax ation, peace of mind, recre ation and clean air.