MUMBAI: In a first-of-its-kind move, Ratnagiri district on Tuesday unveiled a District Development-cum-Climate Action Plan that places actionable climate-resilient measures at the heart of its growth strategy, with a focus on renewable energy, climate-proof infrastructure and strengthening farm and fisheries value chains.Prepared by the International Forum for Environment, Sustainability & Technology (iFOREST) under an MoU with the state’s department of environment and climate change, the plan proposes a series of sector-specific interventions to safeguard livelihoods in the coastal district and unlock new economic opportunities.Among the key measures is the large-scale deployment of solar pumps, renewable-powered cold chains and clean energy systems to support agriculture and fisheries. The plan calls for expansion of climate-resilient agricultural practices, micro-irrigation and post-harvest infrastructure for horticulture crops such as mango and coconut, which form the backbone of the district’s rural economy.It also emphasises climate-proofing of roads, bridges, public buildings and coastal infrastructure through improved drainage systems and resilient design standards, amid projections of rising temperatures, extreme rainfall and increasing flood and landslide risks. Nearly one-third of the district’s villages are projected to face higher flood risks by 2050, and 167 villages fall in landslide-prone zones.Renewable energy development is identified as a major growth lever. The plan estimates Ratnagiri’s renewable energy potential at nearly 19 gigawatts across solar, wind, rooftop and floating solar systems, creating scope for decentralised energy generation and green jobs. It recommends building green skills among youth to tap emerging clean-technology and climate-linked livelihood opportunities.Institutionally, the blueprint proposes setting up a dedicated district climate cell within the administration to integrate climate priorities into annual planning and budgeting across departments. A district climate finance platform has also been recommended to facilitate convergence of government schemes and mobilise investments for climate-resilient projects.The plan was released by district collector and magistrate Manuj Jindal at a meeting attended by district officials, panchayati raj representatives, women’s self-help groups, farmer cooperatives and civil society organisations.“As a coastal district within the eco-sensitive zones of the Sahyadri mountains, Ratnagiri must prepare for climate risks that will directly impact local lives and livelihoods,” Jindal said, stressing the need to strengthen fisheries through improved cold storage, electric boats and resilient infrastructure to enhance economic output and sustainable employment.Srestha Banerjee, director, just transition and climate change at iFOREST, said integrating climate action with district planning would help streamline administrative oversight and converge financial resources for effective implementation.
