Spatial land transformation and the psychosocial exposure among climate migrants in southwestern Bangladesh

Climate-induced land use and land cover (LULC) change has emerged as a critical driver of internal migration in coastal Bangladesh, with profound implications for migrant mental well-being. This study examines how district-level LULC transformation in Khulna District contributes to internal climate migration and how subsequent urban relocation shapes psychological impacts among migrants in Khulna City. Satellite-based LULC data from 2018 to 2024 were analyzed to capture environmental change across Khulna District. In addition, 100 in-depth semi-structured interviews, five focus group discussions, and three key informant interviews were conducted among climate migrants currently residing in Khulna City who originated from climate-affected rural and peri-urban areas of the district. The LULC analysis indicates rapid environmental transformation, including a substantial increase in built-up areas (+144.70 sq. km) and water coverage (+22.19 sq. km), alongside significant declines in tree cover (-111.96 sq. km), flooded vegetation (-46.12 sq. km), and rangeland (-19.52 sq. km). These changes reflect land degradation, ecological loss, and expanding urbanization in migrant source areas. Qualitative findings reveal widespread psychological stress among migrants, driven by forced displacement, loss of home and livelihood, uncertainty regarding return to places of origin, and prolonged adjustment to urban living conditions. Feelings of insecurity and emotional distress were commonly expressed, highlighting the mental health consequences of spatial and environmental disruption. By linking district-scale land system change with city-level migrant experiences, this study advances an integrated spatial perspective on climate migration. It emphasizes the critical role of place-based environmental change in shaping the mental health outcomes and social vulnerability of displaced populations in rapidly urbanizing coastal regions.