Climate Change Impacts on the Built Heritage of Hyderabad

Abstract

The city of Hyderabad is an epitome of built heritage across various periods, dynasties, and architectural styles. However, as in other cities, this heritage is also at significant risk from climate change factors. This paper aims to understand the climatic changes expected in Hyderabad and the surrounding region and thereby broadly gauge the impact on the regional built heritage. The study is based on extensive research on various climate models, projections, and structural responses to change in micro-climate. Recent unprecedented torrential rain has caused damage to quite a few heritage structures in the region. Temperature rise will cause cracking in the structural members; humidity changes will cause wooden members to decay faster and other deterioration of porous materials. Reduction in aquifer levels may cause ground subsidence, which in turn may cause structural failure. If not recognized and checked in time, such valuable historical treasures will no longer be fit for use and will be lost to time. The paper concludes with broad recommendations to attempt to conserve the rich heritage. Climate projections at the local level have been proposed. Climate Vulnerability Index (CVI) assessment and local level monitoring strategies should be undertaken to understand the risks on the heritage structures so that necessary, timely interventions can be taken up to safeguard them.