Kerala, off late, is increasingly facing the adverse impacts of rising temperatures and heat stress, particularly affecting its most vulnerable communities. As global climate change progresses, the state's unique geographical and ecological fragility intensifies heat-related challenges. Local governments play a crucial role in developing targeted strategies to mitigate these effects, yet there is a pressing need for innovative projects that address specific regional vulnerabilities. By fostering collaboration among key stakeholders, local governments can devise effective solutions tailored to their communities while also harnessing available resources and funding opportunities.

WRI India has been actively engaged in Kerala to promote sustainable cooling practices in collaboration with state agencies such as the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA), the Energy Management Centre Kerala, and the Nava Keralam Karmapadhathi, as well as local governments. One of the key objectives of this initiative is to empower local governments to create projects aimed at alleviating heat stress. WRI India is closely engaging with KSDMA on this effort, supporting two Panchayats – Kanichar in Kannur and Vechoochira in Pathanamthitta district – in identifying and implementing solutions that specifically address the needs of vulnerable communities facing heat stress. Detailed studies on studies to understand heat stress related issues in Anganwadis and informal settlements in various parts of the state has been conducted.

This workshop will convene local governments, state agencies, and technology providers to develop implementable solutions for heat stress challenges, focusing on vulnerable groups like children in Anganwadis. The discussion will also explore resource mobilization strategies and funding options for localized heat mitigation efforts. 

  • Joy Elamon, Member, KSDMA
  • Mini Sukumar, Member, Kerala State Planning Board
  • Fahad Mazook, Disaster Analysit, KSDMA
  • Dhilon Subrahmanian, Senior Manager, WRI India
  • Chandana Sasidharan, Program Research Fellow, WRI India
  • Ijas M A, Senior Research Associate, WRI India
  • Dhilon Subramanian, WRI India