2025 Reports

Urban Heat Island of a Polynuclear Megacity Delhi City Region Using Local Climate Zones

Budhiraja, Bakul; McKinley, Jennifer

This case study analyzes the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect in the Delhi City Region using the Local Climate Zones (LCZ) framework. By combining thermal remote sensing with urban morphology data, the study identifies seasonal and spatial variations in heat intensity across different urban forms. Findings show that dense, unplanned areas experience the highest temperatures, while greener zones offer cooling effects. The research supports Delhi’s 2023 Heat Action Plan by highlighting vulnerable areas, emphasizing night-time heat risks, and proposing targeted interventions like cooling centers and long-term nature-based solutions. It advocates for UHI-informed planning that goes beyond administrative boundaries to build urban climate resilience.