Application of split- window algorithm to study Urban Heat Island effect in Mumbai through land surface temperature approach

Urban planners grapple with rapidity of Urbanization as dense economic activity accelerates. This provided a livelihood in urban areas creating a natural magnet for continuous immigration. Due to increase in impervious surfaces, for example concrete cities, with higher percentage of roads, concrete footpaths and rooftops in urban buildings (Chen et al., 2006). Urbanization is directly correlated to higher temperatures in urban areas (Weng et al., 2004). One such challenge which is obvious in most of the urban agglomeration is Urban Heat Island. (Becker & Li, 1990) This study investigates the temperature rise and identifies the urban temperature pattern in Mumbai. The Split window algorithm is identified to derive Land Surface Temperatures. This study takes two approaches for understanding these effects – the land use changes and the land surface temperature changes. A quantitative approach is followed between temperature and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) (Becker & Li, 1990; Estoque et al., 2017). Thermal remote sensing method has been found directly relevant for understanding urban heat island effects for cities (Roth et al., 1989). Results show that the heat pockets on barren lands, slums, salt pans and concrete areas like airport are more prominent in Mumbai. This research is the first comprehensive research of Land Surface Temperature pattern of 2013 and 2014 on Mumbai by using Remote Sensing Technology and its relation with Urban Morphology.