Warming reality of Kozhikode Urban Area: Uncovering the heat of built-up expansion and vegetation loss

Abstract

Urban expansion often comes at the expense of natural landscapes, leading to increased temperatures and environmental degradation. This study examines the effects of urbanization on land cover changes and their implications for land surface temperature (LST) by analyzing normalized difference satellite indices in the Kozhikode Urban Area (KUA), a city where substantial urbanization has significantly impacted the natural environment. By investigating changes in vegetation and impervious surfaces from 1993 to 2022, the research highlights a troubling trend: while vegetation cover has sharply declined, impermeable surfaces like roads and buildings have surged, contributing to a dramatic rise in average temperatures. The study reveals that built-up areas significantly elevate LST, whereas vegetation and water bodies offer cooling effects. The results underscore the urgent need for integrating green infrastructure into urban planning to combat rising temperatures and enhance environmental sustainability. This research emphasizes the importance of considering smaller, vegetation-rich cities like Kozhikode in broader urban heat research, as they present unique challenges and opportunities for effective climate adaptation strategies. By highlighting these issues, this study aims to inform policymakers and urban planners about the critical role of urban greening in mitigating the effects of climate change and fostering sustainable urban environments.