ICLEI South Asia organized a stakeholder consultation meeting in Kakinada on 10 December 2024, under the ‘Climate Development Knowledge Network (CDKN): Accelerating Inclusive Action’ Programme. The Kakinada Municipal Corporation (KMC) has developed the Climate Resilience City Action Plan (CRCAP) with technical assistance from ICLEI South Asia and support from C40 Cities. In response to valuable insights gained on the growing challenges of climate extremes, the city has proactively collaborated under the CDKN Programme for planning, implementation, and capacity-building on climate-induced disaster-resilient development, integrating gender-responsive, social inclusion, and ecosystem-based approaches.

Convened and spearheaded by Ms. Bhawna, Municipal Commissioner, KMC, the meeting was attended by around 20 participants, representing the Climate Core Team of KMC, various district and state departments (including the District Disaster Management Authority, District Forest Office, District Fire Office, Pollution Control Board, and others), as well as civil society organizations.

The ICLEI South Asia team presented the process and key findings of the climate action plan. They also demonstrated the process of assessing disaster resilience using the Disaster Resilience Scorecard for Cities by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR). The team highlighted the city’s progress, the efforts of relevant stakeholders, and sought stakeholder inputs for transitioning to climate-induced disaster resilience.

The Commissioner emphasized, “While the climate action plan serves as a foundation for long-term benefits, considering the slow onset of climate extremes, a coastal city such as Kakinada must be proactive in building resilience to address the recurring threat of climate hazards.”

Participants deliberated on the efforts of various stakeholders to safeguard the city’s people, infrastructure, and ecosystems from future climate-related disruptions. They discussed the scope and opportunities to be integrated into the assessment process. The meeting concluded with consensus on the need for a collaborative approach in crafting climate and disaster resilience action plans.