In response to the scorching heatwaves gripping Ahmedabad, the Mahila Housing Trust (MHT) has spearheaded a pioneering initiative aimed at alleviating the extreme temperatures experienced by slum dwellers. By implementing solar reflective white paint on over 20,000 homes, MHT has significantly enhanced indoor comfort levels, providing relief from the relentless summer heat.
The initiative addresses a critical issue affecting marginalized communities, where soaring temperatures exacerbate living conditions, often leading to health risks and increased electricity bills. Many residents, like those in Ignas Park slum, have previously struggled with unbearably high temperatures inside their homes, exacerbated by inadequate ventilation and shared walls.
Explaining the impact of MHT’s intervention, a resident shared, “After painting our roof white, we noticed a remarkable improvement in indoor temperatures. It used to be unbearable, but now it’s much more comfortable throughout the day.” This simple yet effective solution not only reduces the need for continuous use of fans and coolers but also contributes to lower electricity bills, offering a sustainable economic benefit to residents.
A programme manager at MHT, emphasized the trust’s commitment to enhancing living conditions in slums. “Our focus is on providing practical solutions to everyday challenges faced by these communities. Heatwaves are particularly severe, and our cool roof initiative is designed to offer immediate relief,” manager stated.
The project, initiated as a pilot in 2016, aligns with MHT’s broader efforts in sustainable urban development and climate resilience. By collaborating with local communities and leveraging innovative technologies like UV reflective paint, MHT aims to replicate and scale this model across other regions facing similar climatic challenges.
The success of the initiative underscores the importance of proactive measures in mitigating climate impacts at the grassroots level. As temperatures continue to rise across India, initiatives like MHT’s cool roof project demonstrate a viable path towards enhancing resilience and improving the quality of life for vulnerable populations.
