The studies reveal how climate change, air pollution, and inadequate public spaces disproportionately affect young children, caregivers, and pregnant women. Research conducted across 18 Indian cities including Delhi, Gandhinagar, and Kharagpur from January 2022 to December 2023 highlights that these vulnerabilities have long-term impacts on children’s development. Women, as primary caregivers and expectant mothers, face greater challenges due to exposure to harmful pollutants and extreme heat, particularly in urban areas. The findings underscore the need for child-friendly public spaces that offer safe environments for early childhood development (ECD) and accommodate the specific needs of children, caregivers and pregnant women. The studies aim to inform policymakers on designing accessible, supportive urban environments that address these gendered and age-specific vulnerabilities, shaping future urban planning.
