Proliferating Ecosystem-Based Adaptation Practices in Indian Cities (EPIC): Project Brochure

The EPIC project, led by the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), is focused on addressing the critical challenges of water scarcity and urban flooding in cities, especially in the context of climate change. An evaluation of 100 Indian Smart Cities revealed that ‘Water Management’ was the most crucial area for climate resilience, with 77% of cities still in the early stages of conceptualizing climate actions for water security. Many cities have yet to consider climate change adaptation for water issues, despite the fact that water is the primary medium through which climate change impacts manifest. Therefore, enhancing water security has become central to urban climate change adaptation strategies. The EPIC project aims to create an enabling environment for ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) in urban water management. EbA uses biodiversity and ecosystem services to help communities adapt to climate change. Unlike traditional 'grey' infrastructure solutions, such as constructing embankments or reservoirs, EbA focuses on nature-based solutions like restoring degraded ecosystems, conserving natural elements, and utilizing traditional practices that have minimal ecological impact. This approach is cost-effective, sustainable, and ecologically beneficial. The project will be implemented in Bhubaneswar, selected for its rich biodiversity and willingness to adopt innovative approaches. The project is structured in two phases:

• Phase 1: Sensitize stakeholders, document good practices, educate, and inspire decision-makers in Bhubaneswar to adopt EbA solutions
• Phase 2: Spread the knowledge to other cities, particularly through the River Cities Alliance, and create a database of EbA solutions

The project aims to build awareness, inspire action, and create a replicable model for other cities. Outputs include a GIS-based location map of climate risks, ecosystems, and tangible EbA solutions. The project is expected to result in better water management, improved resilience, and enhanced urban sustainability for participating cities.