A Study on Urban Heat Island (UHI): Challenges and Opportunities for Mitigation

Abstract

Urban Heat Island (UHI) is a significant issue in metropolitan regions in India, where cities are experiencing increasing temperatures ranging from 1 to 5 °C. Although UHI is a global phenomenon, it particularly impacts major cities in India, and there is a need for more research in this field. This review compares the latest global developments in UHI research with the current research in India, highlighting areas where India may lag. The review notes that there is a lack of research on UHI in numerical modeling in India, which is a limitation. Because of this, finding a solution to UHI and putting it into law requires more focus and effort. Urgent measures are required to lessen the effects of UHI in urban areas of India. Parameter outputs such as Land Surface Temperatures (LST), Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Land Use/Land Cover (LULC), and Normalized Difference Built-up Index (NDBI) were also compared with the results of prior research and modules in the review. Using correlations from three prior studies, the analysis demonstrated that the temperature deviation approximation was 0.157 °C better than last year's manuals. Consequently, additional research is needed to address urban heat islands (UHI) in Indian cities, focusing on numerical modeling. Prompt legislative and policy responses are also necessary. The review emphasizes the importance of ongoing research into UHI in India and measures to mitigate its effects.