Urban Heat Island Effect Intensifies in Chennai Due to Rapid Urbanization

A study by Anna University highlights the intensification of the urban heat island (UHI) effect in Chennai, driven by a marked increase in built-up areas within the Chennai Metropolitan Area (CMA). From 1988 to 2017, residential, commercial, and industrial land use surged from 17.7% to 48.7%, while agricultural and forest lands significantly decreased.

This land use change has led to higher land surface temperatures, particularly in barren and developed regions. The UHI effect exacerbates energy consumption, air pollution, and ecosystem degradation. The study recommends policy interventions, community awareness, and urban densification to mitigate the UHI impact and promote sustainable urban growth.