Comprehending the costs and benefits of adaptation in water supply under changing climate of Shimla
Student name: Ms Samiksha Dhingra
Guide: Dr Kamna Sachdeva
Year of completion: 2014
Host Organisation: ICLEI- Local Governments for Sustainability, South Asia Secretariat
Abstract: The evaluation of the impact of climate change varies not only by quantitative variations in
precipitation but also by system characteristics that can be changed and enhanced. This study
investigated the effectiveness of rainwater harvesting, reviving traditional water sources, early
warning systems and recycling wastewater as an adaptation to climate change scenario in water
sector of Shimla City. The performance of these strategies is examined using a
qualitative/quantitative Cost Benefit Analysis (CBA). The strategies examine the direct benefits
and costs of the systems. The resultant net benefits for three strategies (except recycling of waste
water) came out to be positive. Most importantly, the results show that the benefit from these
strategies increases over time. Especially, for rainwater harvesting and recycling of wastewater,
the results (by using a social discount rate of 5%) indicate that the benefit of these strategies
increases in the future, whereas the cost decreases. However, the results are based on certain
assumptions. The results of this study highlight the need to adapt in Shimla city, which would
significantly increase the situation of present water supply sector.
Keywords: Adaptation, Climate Change, Cost Benefit Analysis, Discounting, and Water Supply
