Gautam Kirtane is an Indian urban planner and environmentalist based in Mumbai, where he has dedicated over two decades to the city’s development. He holds an MSc in Environmental Science from Mumbai’s Institute of Science (2004) and an MSc in City Design and Social Science from the London School of Economics (2019).
His career spans public policy think tanks, research institutes, the corporate sector, and NGOs, focusing on waste management, transport, disaster management, sustainable urban design, water systems, and green infrastructure. As a Research Fellow at the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), he works on strategies for resilient and sustainable cities.
Gautam has contributed to riverfront rejuvenation efforts, including the Mithi River restoration, and has highlighted the value of projects like the Sabarmati and Kankaria waterfronts for integrating environmental and urban planning goals. In June 2018, he moderated a high-profile panel on climate change solutions for Mumbai, organized by ORF in collaboration with the Canadian Consulate and Free Press Journal. In October 2024, he represented India at the UN‑Habitat World Cities Day conference in Shanghai as part of a Yashwantrao Chavan Centre delegation.
Passionate about vibrant public spaces, Gautam advocates participatory urban development to enhance Mumbai’s resilience and sustainability. The city is his laboratory, teacher, and home, driving his commitment to its future.