Optimizing Urban Cooling: A Comparative Analysis of Green Infrastructure in Peshawar

Abstract

Current research analyzes the efficacy of several green infrastructure components in reducing the urban heat island effect in Peshawar city, KPK. It focuses on three public squares that have different forms of GI. Lack of planning for urban open and green spaces have negatively impacted cities and resulted in poor life quality, hence these must be evaluated for intervention planning. By integrating Land Surface Temperature information with on-site observations, simulations, and vegetation maps, overall research direction was established. Research highlighted intricate interactions among many GI characteristics. The study enlightened that while grass alone provides only marginal cooling effects (0.4–0.8°C), strategically combining trees with creative fountain design may dramatically lower urban temperatures (up to 6°C) relative to neighboring regions. GI's contribution to UHI mitigation is enhanced by these research findings, which offer useful resources for urban planners and designers. Simulations and further evaluations are proposed.