WRI India launches Data Lab Connect to boost Bengaluru climate resilience

WRI India has launched Data Lab Connect, an initiative designed to bring together data, geospatial tools and local insights to strengthen Bengaluru’s climate resilience. Launched on Monday, 12 October, as part of Bangalore Climate Data Week 2026, the platform aims to bridge the gap between climate evidence and practical urban action.

The platform has been built around specific local requirements, offering organisations the guidance needed to unpack complex climate challenges and select appropriate analytical methods. WRI India said the initiative aims to enhance climate resilience for vulnerable communities and urban populations most exposed to environmental risks.

How Data Lab Connect works

Data Lab Connect provides direct guidance to help institutions identify relevant data and spatial methods for addressing specific climate questions. Through detailed maps and spatial analysis, the platform allows stakeholders to understand risk patterns and environmental vulnerabilities across Bengaluru’s expanding urban landscape.

Beyond general mapping, WRI India said that it will deliver customized geospatial and technical support for specific operational problem statements. This will enable local groups and planners to apply empirical evidence directly to their field projects and long-term development strategies.

Who the platform supports

The platform is structured to serve a wide range of urban actors across the city. WRI India confirmed that the service will support Bengaluru-based civil society organisations, community groups, research institutions and think tanks, alongside government agencies.

Funding bodies, philanthropic organisations, private sector partners and implementation agencies will also be able to draw on the platform's analytical resources to align their investments with verified climate evidence.

Bangalore Climate Data Week 2026

The launch coincided with the opening of Bangalore Climate Data Week 2026, which runs from 12 October to 16 October. The event features an interactive exhibition titled ‘From Evidence to Impact: How Data-informed Initiatives Enable Change’, showcasing how spatial data is already addressing some of Bengaluru’s most pressing municipal challenges.

The week-long initiative brings together urban planners, researchers, civil society advocates and policymakers to explore how empirical data can build more sustainable, inclusive and resilient cities.