Rabiya Jabbar
Mankind has been in the evolution process since the beginning. With the increase in population human beings tend to adopt new methods for their survival. Human beings improve their living style but with great consequences, as the expansion of man-made infrastructure and urban cities have a greater impact on the natural environment. Urban heat island also known as the urban island effect, is one of the biggest issues since the start of the 21st century. It refers to cities experiencing higher temperatures compared to the surrounding rural areas. The concept of urban heat island was introduced back in 1818 but it gained importance in the late 1970’s because of rapid urbanization and its significant effects on climate change. The temperature difference between cities and their surroundings can range from 1 to 7 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 2 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit at night. Because roads and other structures absorb heat during the day and release it slowly at night so results in elevated temperatures, especially during heat waves. Mountains also have a greater impact on land surface temperature because of different characteristics like precipitation, elevation, latitude, slope etc. However, mountains play a crucial role in regulating temperature. Urbanization is increasing with every passing year, and it is one of the biggest causes of climate change.
Pakistan’s Urban Heat Islands
The majority of Pakistani cities are facing a growing problem with urban heat island (UHI). Pakistan is home to several such heat island cities including Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad; each facing distinct challenges regarding UHI effects. Karachi situated along the Arabian Sea coast; experiences intense heat. Lahore, surrounded by the Ravi River and its tributaries faces similar challenges, while Islamabad nestled within the Margalla hills contends with heat trapped within its valley-like topography. Mountains play a crucial role in regulating temperature. In Pakistan, 61% area is covered with mountainous regions accommodating more than 60 million people till 2010. In the last two decades, in Pakistan, the population has been rapidly increasing which is another cause of temperature rising. Pakistan is on the increase in population which in turn increases the man-made infrastructure. Majorly the heat originating in urban areas is due to an increase in the amount of activity of people and by use of automobiles which put out excessive energy in the environment. Moreover, the construction of industrial buildings is close together, and the used materials are good at holding in heat.
Pakistan’s urban heat islands have a significant negative impact on both the economy and agriculture of the country such as reduced worker productivity. Extreme heat leads to heat stress causing fatigue and hindering the ability of outdoor laborers to work efficiently. This is particularly concerning as a large portion of Pakistan’s workforce. Heat urbanization also increases energy costs to cope with heat-related challenges. Intense heat can also damage roads and buildings leading to expensive repairs. Heat urbanization also affects our agriculture. It disrupts water resources and leads to higher evaporation rates which can lead to water shortages and other agricultural productivity issues.
Exposure to heat due to urban heat islands can lead to medical problems. Hundreds of people, primarily daily wage laborers working outdoors stumbled to heat strokes. The heat wave worsened Karachi’s poor air quality which caused respiratory problems, especially among children and the elderly. Many people are unable to keep themselves hydrated due to limited access to clean water which leads to dehydration and worsened pre-existing health conditions. Urban heat islands also causes mental illness such as anxiety and depression.
Pakistan faces a growing challenge from urban heat island while there isn’t a single comprehensive policy solely focused on heat urbanization, the government through various policies that can help mitigate its effect such as ‘the National Climate Change Policy (2012)’. This policy acknowledges the threat of climate change, and heat waves in urban areas and it proposes measures like improved town planning and promoting low-carbon settlement with efficient energy use. Other policies are provincial policies like ‘Punjab’s climate change policy (2017)’ which also advocates town planning and promotes low-carbon settlement with efficient energy use. Town planning and promoting low carbon settlement with efficient energy use. Implementing strategies such as increasing green spaces and adopting cool roof technologies can reduce heat-related health risks.
By prioritizing the above-given suggestions and fostering collaboration among government agencies, urban planners, architects, and the public. Tackling the urban heat island effect is not only essential for reducing its adverse impacts but also for improving the overall quality of life for residents and ensuring the city is better equipped to face future climate challenges. Through concerted efforts and proactive measures, Pakistani cities can pave the way for sustainable development and a healthier urban future.
