Integrating climate change concerns into disaster management planning: the case of Gorakhpur, India
This new CDKN case study evaluates how a climate mainstreaming programme such as the one implemented in Gorakhpur District might inspire other local governments in a similar position to effectively incorporate climate change considerations into disaster management planning within their districts. Gorakhpur District is recognised as one of the most flood-prone districts in Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India. The data over the past 100 years show a considerable increase in the intensity and frequency of floods, which are now recurring every 3–4 years. Gorakhpur District is home to 4.4 million people, most of whom live in rural areas. Roughly 20% of the population is affected by floods, and in some areas, flooding has become an annual occurrence, causing huge loss of life, health and livelihoods for the poor inhabitants, and extensive damage to public and private property.