A recent study conducted by researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology-Bhubaneswar notes that urbanisation alone accounts for a staggering 60 percent of the warming trend in India, with tier-2 cities in eastern India bearing the brunt of this phenomenon.
ANALYZING TEMPERATURE TRENDS
Utilizing MODIS Aqua satellite night-time land surface temperature (NLST) data spanning from 2003 to 2020, the researchers examined temperature trends in 141 cities across India over two decades. NLST data provides insights into land surface heat radiation at night, offering valuable indicators of urban heat islands and temperature variations.
ALARMING RISE IN URBAN TEMPERATURES
The study reveals an alarming rise in nighttime land surface temperatures (NLST) across Indian cities, with an overall mean rate of 0.53+/-0.19 degrees Celsius per decade. Notably, urban areas are experiencing a more rapid increase in temperatures compared to non-urban regions, with cities warming at a rate of 0.2 ± 0.15 degrees Celsius per decade, nearly double the national average.
REGIONAL DISPARITIES IN WARMING TRENDS
While urban heating is observed nationwide, certain regions, including the northwestern, northeastern, and southern areas, are experiencing more pronounced increases in NLST. This underscores the heterogeneous nature of the warming trend and highlights the need for region-specific mitigation strategies.
UNDERSTANDING THE SCIENCE BEHIND URBAN HEATING
Excessive concretisation and dwindling green cover in urban areas contribute to heat trapping, impeding the cooling process. Unlike agricultural or forested regions, urban centers retain heat for longer durations, exacerbating heat stress and discomfort among residents.
ADVOCATING FOR A DIFFERENTIAL APPROACH
The researchers advocate for a “differential approach” to combat urban warming effectively. This approach emphasizes the implementation of customized solutions tailored to the unique challenges and conditions of each city. By adopting targeted interventions, policymakers can address the root causes of urban heat islands and mitigate the adverse impacts of rising temperatures.
NAVIGATING THE PATH FORWARD
As urbanisation continues to accelerate, addressing the challenges posed by urban warming becomes imperative. By leveraging scientific research and adopting innovative strategies, stakeholders can foster sustainable urban development while safeguarding the well-being of urban populations. Implementing a differential approach to urban planning and climate adaptation is crucial in creating resilient and livable cities for the future.