Spatial Assessment of Atmospheric Contamination and Urban Heat Phenomenon in Urban Centers of Sindh, Pakistan

Syeda Zainy; Sheeba Afsar; Yasmeen Anis

Authors

Syeda Zainy Department of Geography, University of Karachi, Pakistan
Sheeba Afsar Department of Geography, University of Karachi, Pakistan
Yasmeen Anis Department of Geography, University of Karachi, Pakistan

Keywords:

Air Pollution, Urban Heat Island, climate change, Spatial Analysis, Urbanization

Abstract

Rapid urbanization and industrialization in Sindh, Pakistan, particularly in urban hubs like Karachi, have led to significant challenges associated with air pollution and the consequences of climate change. This study employs Geographic Information Systems (GIS) techniques to investigate air quality indices (AQI) in Sindh, with a focus on particulate matter such as PM2.5. This research provides a novel solution by visually illustrating the spatial patterns and potential correlations between air pollution and temperature, an area not comprehensively addressed before. By utilizing interpolation methods and graphing AQI values over time, this study identifies air-polluted areas and explores their spatial distribution throughout the year. The juxtaposition of PM2.5 concentrations with land surface temperature (LST) maps reveals spatial patterns and potential correlations. It is observed that areas with elevated air pollution levels often coincide with urban centers, exacerbating the urban heat island effect due to human activities generating excess heat. Furthermore, the impacts of air pollution extend beyond human health, affecting ecosystems, soil, water, and biodiversity. By juxtaposing PM2.5 concentrations with land surface temperature (LST) maps, this research visually illustrates spatial patterns and potential correlations between air pollution and temperature. Surface temperature maps reveal heightened temperatures in areas with significant air pollution, indicating a direct relationship between pollution levels and increased temperatures. However, the complexities of this relationship are acknowledged, as the impacts of air pollution on climate are influenced by various factors including geographic location, meteorological conditions, and pollutant composition. This study provides valuable insights into the spatial dynamics of atmospheric contamination and its implications for urban heat land formation in Sindh, contributing to a better understanding of the interplay between anthropogenic activities, air quality, and climate change.

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