Spatial Assessment of Urban Heat Island and Heat Related Risks in Chandni Chowk, Delhi

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Dr. Nidhi Gandhi Behl¹ and Archana Deshwal²

¹Assistant Professor, Kalindi College, University of Delhi

²Research Scholar, Kalindi College, University of Delhi

Abstract— Urban Heat Island is a growing concern in large cities or urban areas, especially in old and densely built areas. This study aims to assess the impact of Urban Heat Island effect on public health in Chandni Chowk. Chandni Chowk is one of the oldest and busiest parts of Delhi which experiences extreme heat due to narrow streets, excessive construction, dense buildings, heavy commercial activities and very limited green spaces. This dissertation focuses on understanding the nature and intensity of Urban Heat Island in Chandni Chowk and understand how the urban environment contributes to rising surface temperatures. The study analyzes the land use and land cover changes from 2000-2025 using satellite imagery.
This study is based on primary survey and indicators such as Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Normalized Difference Built-up Index (NDBI) are used to examine the relationship between urban development, vegetation loss. Vegetation cover, built up surfaces and population pressure are examined to identify their relationship with temperature variation. Field observation and secondary sources are also used to support the analysis. The result shows that the areas with dense commercial activity and limited green cover show significantly higher surface temperatures, increasing discomfort for local people and workers.

Keywords— Urban Heat Island, Urban Environment, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, Normalized Difference Built Up Index

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