Morphological Patterns of Competing Urban Green Spaces in Megacity: A Case of Delhi
摘要
This chapter presents an exhaustive analysis of morphological patterns of competing Urban Green Spaces (UGS) in a megacity—Delhi, India, from 1998 to 2018. Leveraging Landsat satellite data, Geographic Information System (GIS) tools, and Census data, the research explores the changing landscape of UGS and its implications for the well-being of urban dwellers. The spatial and temporal Land Use Land Cover (LULC) analysis reveals a consistent increase in human-dominated land use, particularly dense and sparse built-up areas, at the expense of vital green spaces like forests and water bodies. The study further delves into the morphological patterns of UGS, employing Morphological Spatial Pattern Analysis (MSPA). The results highlight the fragmentation and complexity that UGS has undergone over the years, particularly along the Aravali hills. The distribution of UGS is mapped, revealing a decreasing trend over time, with significant disparities in availability across different regions of Delhi. To understand the importance of these to the residents of the city, the study introduces the concept of UGS per capita distribution and Greenness Index (GI). The analysis indicates a concerning decline in UGS per capita in various districts, with southern and southwestern regions exhibiting a more favorable scenario. The GI, correlating UGS availability with population density, highlights the need for strategic interventions to mitigate the adverse effects of rapid urbanization. The study concludes with an in-depth discussion that contextualizes the findings within the broader urban development narrative. The insights from this research offer valuable guidance for urban planners, policymakers, and residents in developing sustainable strategies to preserve and enhance UGS, ensuring a healthier and more ecologically balanced urban environment.