Satellite Data Reveals Rising Urban Heat Island Effect Across Indian Cities

Between 2003 and 2020, India's urban areas warmed at twice the national rate, with satellite data showing significant temperature rises linked to rapid urban sprawl, loss of vegetation, and shrinking water bodies. Cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad exhibit varied patterns of heat increase despite differing green cover changes. This Urban Heat Island effect is impacting residents’ health and livelihoods, especially vulnerable communities, as rising temperatures reduce outdoor work capacity and quality of life across multiple regions.