Change in land use patterns could be a reason behind soaring temperature in Bengaluru: Researchers

Researchers say that the change in land use pattern could be one of the factors behind the rise in temperature.

Dr Anushiya J, Research Scientist leading the Adaptation and Risk Analysis group at Center for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP) explained, “The changes in land-use dimensions and decreasing green cover could be possible reasons for Bengaluru experiencing a rise in local temperature. While the built-up area has increased in the last two decades, the green cover and water bodies have decreased considerably. The city is also continuing to experience a decrease in diurnal temperature range (DTR), the difference between day and night temperatures. According to our analysis, almost a two degree decrease in DTR has been observed from the year 2000 to 2023.”

DTR indicates whether the weather is stable or not. It is an important meteorological indicator of global climate change.

“As urban areas continue to expand, climate-proof designs should be adopted. Micro-level (ward) heat-risk assessments must be conducted to identify and map hot spots. A policy of “green wedges” — continuous green spaces connecting the city to the outskirts — should be adopted to regain Bengaluru’s lost green spaces,” she added.

IMD in its weather forecast has said that the maximum temperature for the next 48 hours in the city is likely to be 36 degrees Celsius.

Kalaburgi on Wednesday recorded the highest maximum temperature of 41.5 degrees Celsius in the state.