Assessment of Land Use and Land Cover and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index for Drought Prone Area of Guntakal, Andhra Pradesh Using Geo-Informatics Techniques

The present study examines alterations in Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) within Guntakal mandal, a region characterized by susceptibility to drought in Andhra Pradesh, through the application of remote sensing and geospatial technologies. Significant shifts in land use have been identified by analyzing Sentinel-2A satellite imagery from 2017 to 2024, alongside data from Landsat-8 and Landsat-9, which were utilized to evaluate vegetation health via the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) from 2013 to 2024. Notable findings encompass the expansion of urban areas, a rise in agricultural activities, and a decline in forest cover. The NDVI analysis reveals fluctuations in vegetation health that are associated with seasonal variations, persistent drought conditions, and anthropogenic influences on the local ecosystem. The effectiveness of remote sensing in monitoring the dynamics of land resources over time is demonstrated through the integration of these satellite datasets. By correlating changes in LULC with trends in vegetation health, the study emphasizes the critical role of geospatial tools in the management of semi-arid environments that are vulnerable to drought. The insights derived from this research hold significant value for policymakers, environmental planners, and local communities who seek to formulate sustainable land management strategies and adapt to the challenges posed by climate change.