Chandigarh administration proposes to set up climate change centre

The State Level Steering Committee (SLSC) on the State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC) 2.0 has proposed to establish a dedicated Climate Change Centre (CCC) to coordinate interdepartmental actions, manage climate data, and facilitate knowledge sharing.

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During the second meeting of the SLSC convened today under the chairmanship of UT Chief Secretary Rajeev Verma, a baseline study on carbon emissions and sequestration potential has also been planned to support evidence-based policy decisions.

The meeting was held to discuss the roadmap for effective implementation of SAPCC 2.0, following its approval by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change during the meeting of the National Steering Committee on Climate Change (NSCCC).

According to officials, the SAPCC 2.0, has outlined a focused strategy to build climate resilience, reduce emissions and mainstream sustainability into governance by 2030. Developed by the UT Department of Environment, SAPCC 2.0 aligns with national climate priorities such as India’s Updated NDCs, Long-Term Low Emission Development Strategy and Mission LiFE.

Based on detailed climate modelling and vulnerability assessments, the plan projects a significant rise in temperatures and heavy rainfall events by 2050, potentially intensifying urban challenges such as heat stress and flooding.

Flagship measures include promoting 100 per cent renewable energy through Model Solar City initiatives, expanding electric mobility, promoting green building, enhancing rainwater harvesting, restoring wetlands and strengthening public health systems.

To ensure transparency and effective governance, SAPCC 2.0 incorporates a Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting (MER) framework.

The meeting was attended by Mandip Singh Brar, Secretary Home-cum-Environment and Forest; Diprava Lakra, Secretary Finance and Transport; Saurbh Kumar, Chief Conservator of Forest-cum-Director Environment; Amit Kumar, Commissioner, Municipal Corporation, Ajay Chagti, Secretary Health; Anup Kumar Soni, Additional Director Environment; along with other representatives from key stakeholder departments.