The Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect refers to the phenomenon where urban areas experience significantly higher temperatures than their rural surroundings due to human activities and modifications to the environment. This effect is particularly pronounced in densely populated and rapidly urbanizing regions like many Indian cities.
Causes of UHI in India
1. Increased Impervious Surfaces: The proliferation of roads, buildings, and sidewalks in cities like Delhi and Mumbai leads to greater heat absorption and retention. 2. Urban Geometry: High-rise buildings and narrow streets trap heat, creating pockets of elevated temperatures. 3. Low Albedo Materials: Common use of dark surfaces such as asphalt and concrete in urban infrastructure increases heat absorption. 4. Anthropogenic Heat: Activities such as heavy vehicular traffic, industrial operations, and the use of air conditioning contribute to additional heat in urban areas. 5. Absence of Vegetation: Rapid urbanization often leads to the reduction of green spaces, limiting natural cooling through evapotranspiration.
Consequences of UHI in India
1. Degradation of Living Environment: Higher urban temperatures reduce comfort and living conditions, affecting the quality of life. 2. Increased Energy Usage: The demand for air conditioning rises, leading to higher energy consumption and costs. 3. Air Quality Problems: Elevated temperatures exacerbate pollution and smog, particularly in cities already struggling with air quality issues. 4. Human Health Impacts: Increased incidents of heat stress and related health issues, including higher mortality rates during heatwaves. 5. Thermal Stress: Increased discomfort due to higher temperatures, affecting productivity and well-being. 6. Water Quality Deterioration: Higher urban temperatures can lead to thermal pollution in water bodies, affecting aquatic life and water quality.
Mitigation Strategies in India
1. Increasing Urban Greenery: Developing parks, green roofs, and urban forests to enhance natural cooling. 2. Urban Planning: Incorporating heat mitigation strategies in building design, material selection, and urban layout. 3. Passive Cooling Techniques: Promoting the use of shading devices, natural ventilation, and other passive cooling methods. 4. Innovative Materials: Utilizing cool pavements and reflective surfaces to reduce heat absorption in urban infrastructure. 5. Heat Risk Monitoring: Implementing technology such as sensors and forecasting systems to monitor and manage heat risks effectively.
SRIRAM’s
Share:
Get a call back
Fill the below form to get free counselling for UPSC Civil Services exam preparation
