Microclimate analysis of high-density urban residential open enclosures: A case of Thane, India

Abstract

Urban heat island produces a significant impact by modifying the microclimate in urban areas. To ensure good quality of life with a safe and healthy built environment, the floor space index (FSI) can be an effective tool. It helps to control the urban densities and shape the morphology of the built environment. Taking the case of typical residential development in a densely populated Indian city, an attempt has been made to explore the relationship between FSI and the microclimate of such open spaces that perform like an open enclosure (OE). Adopting the simulation pathway in ENVI-met, a mathematical relationship is established between an important tool used by urban planners and the variables of the microclimate in a typical urban enclosure. The observations indicate that FSI has a strong negative correlation with air temperature and mean radiant temperature. Evaluation of physiological equivalent temperature reveals a similar relationship with FSI, demonstrating a temporal transposition of the trend for a particular FSI range of 2.5-3.5 in the late evening and early morning hours due to high humidity levels and reduced wind speeds. The study will help the planners to prognosticate the microclimatic variables while working out the data-based, logical and well-evaluated future development control regulations.