Bengaluru burning

Abstract: Climate-changed induced extreme events like heatwaves have become increasingly critical issues in urban India. Rapidly growing cities are vulnerable to adverse effects of heatwaves exacerbated by inequalities embedded in urbanisation. This study uses the case of Bengaluru, India to explore how residents of different socio-economic backgrounds experience heatwaves. Further explored are adaptation strategies implemented at individual and city level. This study identifies gaps in climate change adaptation and their challenges. Critical urban theory is applied to discuss why these challenges persist. Mixed methods of literature review and interviews are used to gather data for the study. The findings reveal differences in exposure to heatwaves are rooted in inequalities of access to formal housing and essential civic infrastructure. There is a risk of maladaptation to heatwaves at individual level, and inadequacy of holistic adaptation strategies at city level. Neoliberalism, gentrification and postcolonialism perpetuate inequalities in urban areas, thus hindering effective adaptation.