Spatial Analysis of Green Cover Concerning Urban Heat Island Effect in Micro-Climate

Urbanization often results in a rise in urban development and a decrease in green cover, which are primary catalysts in increasing urban temperature. The elevated temperature of the microclimate of metropolitan areas, compared to their vicinities, is referred to as Urban Heat Island (UHI). Heat islands cause human discomfort, and life-threatening health issues along with increased energy consumption and aggravated pollution. This paper attempts to comprehend the impact and influence of green cover on the intensity of UHI in the microclimate of Aligarh city areas using the mobile traverse method. Two research objectives formulated to accomplish the study include the evaluation of the impact of green cover on the UHI effect in microclimatic conditions and a proposal of a mitigation strategy to alleviate the UHI impact in the affected area. This study dealt with only ambient D.B.T. and relative humidity- R.H. (%) observations and was confined to only two specific identified locations in Aligarh city. This research determined the presence and extent of UHI's microclimate variation concerning green cover within urban communities of distinct environmental layouts and functionalities. Spatial analysis of the data showed that with the 10% reduction in green cover, there was a rise in temperature by 0.082℃ in short distances. These findings are beneficial for reducing the impact in UHI-affected areas and for developing a thermally comfortable environment along with improved urban planning.