PRELIMINARY OBSERVATION OF NDVI-BASED VEGETATION DYNAMICS AND ITS RELATION TO ENVIRONMENTAL VARIABLES IN MAJOR CITIES OF SAURASHTRA REGION, INDIA

Authors

  • Kavya P. Tanna Shree M. & N. Virani Science College (Autonomous)
  • Dr. Reena P. Dave Department of Biology, Shree M. & N. Virani Science College (Autonomous), Rajkot, Gujarat, India

Keywords:

Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Weather Parameters, Urbanization, Remote Sensing, Quantum GIS (QGIS), Saurashtra region

Abstract

Climatic variables have a significant role in the vegetation index of a region, however not much studies have been conducted around them. The aim of this study is to observe the relationship between vegetation index (Normalised Difference Vegetation Index) and weather parameters. Saurashtra region has seen a general decline in natural vegetation over the last 30 years, especially in urban and coastal areas. This research uses Normalised Difference Vegetation Index on QGIS using Landsat 5 and 8 images to examine the spatiotemporal changes in the greenery and vegetation of Rajkot (Urban), Junagadh (forested), and Porbandar (coastal) cities between 1991 and 2021.  The study reveals a significant decrease in the amount of vegetation, especially along Rajkot's urban growth corridors. However, there are only a few small-scale forestry and greening initiatives visible. The vegetation in Junagadh has significantly declined showing rapid urban conversions, with a few high NDVI pockets still existing in the city. There are apparent restoration initiatives, especially in riparian zones, but their reach and influence are constrained. Porbandar's vegetation is declining, especially in peri-urban areas, and it is being extensively replaced by built-up areas. Over time, there appears to have been some beneficial effects near water bodies on account of modest riparian restoration and small-scale greening. This study also discusses policy recommendations that encourage academics and urban planners to prioritise native and climate-resilient vegetation and incorporate green infrastructure into urban development. Involving the community in urban greening initiatives will encourage environmental stewardship and public participation. Lastly, resistance to shifting urban and climatic conditions will be ensured by adaptive management and frequent policy reviews.

Keywords: Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Weather Parameters, Urbanization, Remote Sensing, Quantum GIS (QGIS), Saurashtra region

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Published

2025-04-01

How to Cite

Tanna, K. P., & P. Dave, D. R. (2025). PRELIMINARY OBSERVATION OF NDVI-BASED VEGETATION DYNAMICS AND ITS RELATION TO ENVIRONMENTAL VARIABLES IN MAJOR CITIES OF SAURASHTRA REGION, INDIA. LIFE SCIENCES LEAFLETS, 180, 1–20. Retrieved from https://petsd.org/ojs/index.php/lifesciencesleaflets/article/view/1806

Issue

Vol. 180 (2025): 1st APRIL 2025...ISSN 0976 - 1098(On Line) ISSN 2277 - 4297(Print)

Section

Research Paper

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