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International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property

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Jodhpur, India 

Net Zero: Heritage for Climate Action

About the Place 

Jodhpur, located in Thar Desert in Rajasthan, India, embodies a rich tapestry of history, culture, and resilience. Founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, the renowned Rathore king, the city's essence is intricately linked with its strategic location and distinctive environmental conditions. Centered around the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur's narrow streets and clustered layout reflect its adaptation to the challenging yet beautiful landscape, highlighting its deep connection with the natural surroundings. 

Jodhpur, India 

Climate Change as a Risk Driver 

Historically, Jodhpur has been grappling with scorching heat and water scarcity. Climate change has further exacerbated these challenges, leading to unpredictable weather patterns. This exposes communities to frequent and severe extreme temperatures, uneven rainfall distribution, and heightened humidity levels, affecting lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure. Without proactive measures, this can lead to conflicts over livelihoods and water sources, threatening the resilience of Jodhpur city. 

Indigenous Knowledge 

Jodhpur has thrived despite its arid climate and water scarcity. Its rulers who built houses from local materials to moderate temperatures and designed narrow streets to guide winds and manage stormwater. A network of waterbodies preserved rainwater, harmonizing with the land's hydrogeology. The people's daily routines, food, and attire connected them to the climate. However, modern developments have overshadowed these traditional practices, leading to urban heat islands and flooding, making the once-resilient city more vulnerable.  

"Sanchay means 'an attempt to preserve the knowledge from the past for a better future. " 

Culture-Based Climate Action Taken 

The project set out on a journey to develop Jodhpur's first-ever Heat Action Plan (HAP) with the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) India, the Jodhpur Municipal Corporation (North), and the Mahila Housing Trust (MHT). This pioneering initiative holds national significance, contributing to and aligning with India's growing adoption of HAPs at both state and city levels. The team carried out the following activities to advocate for and provide concrete measures to integrate culturally sensitive interventions within the HAP, the team carried out the following activities. 

Sanchay: Unveiling the Climate-Culture Story 

The team documented the lived experiences of Jodhpur's residents and analyzed their traditional knowledge of vernacular architecture to mitigate challenges posed by the climate crisis. Through interviews with residents and historical experts, they investigated the origins of the indigo colour used to paint the exterior of the traditional houses. Their findings are now featured in a documentary called "Sanchay: The Climate-Culture Story of Jodhpur," which uses the voices of residents to uncover the risk perspectives of locals and experts to improve disaster risk management strategies.  

Traditional Architectural Practices for Informing Sustainable Construction 

To verify how the construction and materials of the traditional houses in Jodhpur helped regulate the temperature, the team created a prototype called the "tiffin box." This device, equipped with temperature and humidity sensors and an atomic clock, observed a noticeable 3° drop in temperature and humidity in the dwellings. Recognizing the potential of traditional architecture in combating urban heat, the team conducted a thorough architectural study of two old traditional houses. This aimed to identify the design elements and construction techniques responsible for the cooling effect observed and recorded. The findings are detailed in a report with recommendations for modern architecture. They offer valuable insights for local authorities to address urban heat islands and promote energy-efficient buildings. 

Reviving the Water Culture of Jodhpur through a Transgenerational Approach 

Recognizing the importance of traditional water bodies - 'Baoli' - in Jodhpur's history and environment, the team initiated a collaborative effort to revive the city's water culture and empower young people to drive change. With the generous support of Maharaja Gaj Singh II of Jodhpur, the Living Waters Museum and the East India Dastangos, the team organized a four-day immersive workshop for 30 local students. it focused on storytelling, exploration of narratives, and creative expression, equipping students to advocate for water heritage preservation. They expressed their insights through songs, music, dance, and drama, guided by experienced facilitators.  

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International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property
Via di San Michele 13 – Rome, Italy
tel: (+39) 06.585-531 / fax: (+39) 06.585-53349 iccrom@iccrom.org

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