Climate variability,livelihoods and social inequities: The vulnerability of migrant workers in Indian cities

Abstract

This paper examines the vulnerability context of migrant workers in the informal sector in three Indian cities (Kochi, Surat and Mumbai), specifically in terms of how their livelihoods interface with climate variability, related hazard events and social inequities. It examines the progression of population vulnerability from a political economy perspective. The underlying assumption is that migrant workers’ vulnerability to climate variability in cities is closely embedded within the wider political economy of their day-to-day livelihood struggles. A mixed methodology design was adopted to carry out the study. Data from 50 migrants in each of the three cities were collected using a semi-structured interview schedule. The research demonstrates that urban vulnerability is a condition that shapes and reshapes itself continuously and fiercely, accompanied by the processes and structures of unplanned rapid urbanisation, environmental change and social exclusion. A significant feature of migrant workers’ vulnerability is its multi-dimensionality. This paper suggests that urban planners involved in environmental governance and risk reduction have to critically reflect on certain terminologies and practices in the field of climate change, while addressing these multi-dimensionalities.