Analyzing the Impact of Urban Expansion on Land Use, Land Cover, and Surface Water: A Case Study of Pal Bichala Lake

Abstract

Over the past few decades, changes in land use and land cover have presented considerable ecological challenges around the world, affecting significantly important ecosystem services. This research analyzes the patterns of changes in land use and land cover (LULC) around the Pal Bichala Lake located in Ajmer district of Rajasthan. The lake is of paramount importance as it serves as a water source to the locals. Unfortunately, the lake’s ecological balance is under serious threat due to excessive human activities in the nearby areas. The paper seeks to evaluate the LULC alterations and the impact of urban development on the condition of Pal Bichala Lake. The multi-temporal satellite imagery from Landsat 4, 5 (1991, 2001, and 2011 Years) and Landsat 8 (2023 Years) are used to prepare the LULC maps using a maximum likelihood algorithm. The analysis comprises the characterization of five classes, Agricultural land, Water Bodies, Barren Land, Built-Up, and Vegetation. The findings indicate that Agricultural land, Water Bodies specially Pal Bichala Lake, and Vegetation have all experienced a decrease in extent, shifting from 231.362 Ha to 165.616 Ha, 2.72 Ha to 1.33 Ha, and 28.2975 Ha to 10.8641 Ha, respectively, over the period from 1991 to 2023.A noteworthy increase in Built Up areas from 92.2981 Ha in 1991 to 165.529 Ha in 2023 underscores urbanization trends and infrastructural development. The transformation of Bare Ground from 5.9895 Ha in 1991 to 17.6984 Ha could indicate alterations in land degradation patterns.

Our analysis shows that the expansion of built-up areas has significantly contributed to the deterioration of Pal Bhichala Lake's ecological condition. As urbanization and the development of infrastructure continued in the surrounding areas, the Lake is now polluted by solid waste. This study may help in strategic planning and policy formation targeted at reducing pollution, protecting water quality, and safeguarding the natural balance of the lake.