Micro-scale analysis of LULC dynamics and their impact on LST in Barishal

Rapid urbanization in Barishal has instigated profound shifts in land use and land cover (LULC) over the past decade, with significant implications for environmental conditions. This study harnesses multispectral Landsat 8 satellite imagery to analyze LULC and land surface temperature (LST) variations from 2014 to 2024. Employing Gradient Directional Mapping (GDM) and profile graphs, the research provides a comprehensive examination of urban expansion, vegetation loss, and LST changes across diverse land cover types. The findings reveal a 30% increase in built-up areas, with a substantial 32.96% decline in vegetation. Notably, approximately 20% of previously bare land has been converted into built-up areas, reflecting a significant shift in land use. In contrast, water bodies have experienced minimal reduction, indicating their relative stability amidst rapid urban growth. LST consistently increased across all land cover types, with urban areas, particularly in the west-northwest and western regions, demonstrating the most pronounced temperature rise, peaking at 5.3°C. This trend underscores the intensification of the urban heat island effect, exacerbating temperature disparities between urban and rural areas. The study also highlights that areas previously occupied by vegetation have contributed significantly to this temperature rise due to their transformation into built-up environments. The research underscores the urgent necessity for sustainable urban planning and conservation measures to counteract the adverse effects of accelerated urban growth. By integrating advanced remote sensing techniques and micro-scale mapping, this study offers valuable insights into LULC dynamics and their environmental impacts, providing essential data-driven tools for policymakers and urban planners.