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-today 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

COVID-19 in India: Who are we leaving behind?

“…Social marginalisation and exclusion of ‘lower’ castes in the rural areas therefore often prevent people's development and progress. For example, people of ‘lower-castes’ are restricted access to resources and institutions which turn into a vicious inescapable circle of poverty (Bosher, Penning-rowsell and Tapsell, 2007; [ 62 ]). Adding to this, people on the move tend to lack access to affordable and stable health care services, and often live in unsafe conditions that increases their vulnerability to health risks ([ 28 ]; Ayeb-Karlsson, Kniveton and Cannon[ 49 ]).…”

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Flood-induced Loss and Damage to Textile Industry in Surat City, India

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