Effects of Commercialization on Microclimate of Lahore: Contextual Investigation of Karim Block, Allama Iqbal Town, Lahore

Abstract

Rapid urbanization has led to an extreme environment, especially in cities like Lahore that is overpopulated and overuse of land resulting in accelerating temperature. The research aims to investigate the commercialization impact on the microclimate of Karim Block, Lahore, which is being over-commercialized, and to propose a strategy to mitigate rising temperature from land use conversion. Theoretical review, policy analysis, ENVI Erdas Imagine, and GIS satellite imagery analysis are conducted to assess Land Surface Temperature from 2016 to 2023. It was revealed that the temperature has increased significantly due to land use change policies, elimination of green infrastructure, and traffic congestion. It highlights the importance of reclassifying land use, incorporating green infrastructure, and mitigating climate change impact. It is recommended to incorporate green roofing to reduce temperature significantly, reclassify Karim Block’s land use by prioritizing green infrastructure, and develop future commercialization policies that cater to environmental susceptibility and promote pedestrianization.