Historic cities are deteriorating faster, are we planning for it?

Historic Cities Under Threat: Are We Prepared?

Historic cities are deteriorating faster are we – Historic cities are deteriorating faster than ever before, with climate change accelerating the degradation of architectural heritage across the globe. In India, the impact is particularly pronounced as rising temperatures and erratic weather patterns challenge the sustainability of ancient urban landscapes. The nation’s summers are witnessing record-breaking heatwaves, with temperatures soaring beyond historical norms. For instance, in February 2025, a rare winter heatwave swept through the country, disrupting long-standing climatic patterns. By 2024, 37 major cities recorded temperatures exceeding 45 degrees Celsius during the months of March to June, leading to a surge in suspected heatstroke cases. Researchers at CARBSE, the Center for Building Science and Energy Research at CEPT University, emphasize that these extreme heat events are now a regular feature of urban life, increasing the cooling demands of Indian cities. This trend raises critical questions: Are we adequately addressing the rapid deterioration of historic cities? And what does this mean for the preservation of cultural and historical landmarks?

A Gaping Gap in Urban Resilience Planning

While efforts to combat modern urban challenges have gained momentum, the preservation of historic cities remains a neglected priority. Over 250 cities and districts have implemented Heat Action Plans, and climate strategies are increasingly integrated into master plans. Yet, the unique vulnerabilities of historic areas are often overlooked. These cities, built with traditional materials and design principles, are not only aesthetic treasures but also functional spaces that have adapted to specific climatic conditions over centuries. The current approach to urban resilience typically prioritizes infrastructure and technology, treating heritage as a secondary concern. This narrow perspective risks leaving historic cities exposed to the full brunt of climate change. As the pace of deterioration quickens, the need for a more holistic approach becomes undeniable.

“The UNESCO World Heritage Committee has repeatedly called on local and national authorities to prioritize the integration of heritage properties into climate strategies,”

said Dr. Meera Patel, a leading expert in heritage conservation. This statement highlights a growing recognition that historic cities are not just relics of the past but active participants in the climate narrative. The accelerated degradation of these areas necessitates a shift in focus, ensuring that their conservation is not sidelined in favor of modern urban development. If we fail to address this urgent need, we risk losing irreplaceable cultural and historical assets that have shaped human civilization for generations.

The Unique Vulnerability of Historic Materials

India’s old city cores, constructed from materials like lime plaster, traditional brick, and stone, were originally designed to withstand stable climatic conditions. However, the rapid climate shifts today are putting these materials under unprecedented stress. Thermal stress cracking has become more frequent, while fluctuating humidity levels have led to accelerated biological decay. For example, in Delhi’s historic Chandni Chowk area, cracks in the traditional brick walls have widened due to prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures. Similarly, in Jaipur’s Pink City, the once-resilient stone structures are showing signs of erosion. These materials, which once thrived in controlled environments, now require specialized maintenance systems to combat the new realities of climate change. Yet, many historic cities lack the resources or infrastructure to sustain such efforts, leading to a cascading effect of deterioration.

Resilience Through Cultural Heritage

Historic cities are not just architectural wonders—they are living ecosystems that support urban resilience. Cultural institutions within these cities, such as temples, forts, and bazaars, act as lifelines during climate-related crises. They provide community spaces for gathering, economic opportunities through tourism, and symbolic anchors that foster cultural identity. A study by CEPT’s ENGAGE network reveals that the preservation of historic fabric is integral to building climate-resistant urban systems. These spaces enable communities to adapt and recover from disruptions, offering a spatially embedded framework for social and economic stability. Losing them risks dismantling a vital component of adaptive capacity, leaving cities more susceptible to the impacts of climate change.

Strategies for Preserving Historic Cities

Experts argue that tailored strategies are essential to address the rapid deterioration of historic cities. Conservation efforts must be paired with climate adaptation measures, such as improving ventilation systems, using modern insulation techniques, and implementing green infrastructure. For example, in Ahmedabad, the restoration of traditional wind towers has been integrated into contemporary urban planning to reduce cooling demands. In Varanasi, initiatives to preserve ancient ghats have included measures to mitigate flooding and temperature fluctuations. These hybrid approaches demonstrate that historic cities can be revitalized without compromising their authenticity.