Dynamics of urbanisation and its impact on Land cover and Land use changes in Kolkata, India (1971 to 2011)

Abstract Urbanisation in India has taken place at a slower pace compared to other countries. Though it has important demographic, economic, developmental, and social implications yet, unplanned, unsystematic and rapid urbanisation negatively affects the environment. This study attempted to understand the spatio-temporal dynamics of urban population change and associated impact on land cover and land use patterns in the city of Kolkata. Using secondary data sources (Census of India dataset and Landsat imageries) and information from primary interviews, this article discussed the effect of unprecedented urbanisation (1971 to 2011) and space delineation. Results showed an extensive stretch of built-up area throughout the city; from the north, towards the south, east and western sides of Kolkata. This structural change occurred at the cost of loss of green space, croplands, and wetlands, creating a fragmented morphology. City limits expanded till 1991. Over the decades rapid expansion of built-up area was prominent towards the southern and south-eastern portions along with increase in population density within the inner city. The population growth trended downwards recently, eventually becoming negative in 2011. Low fertility rate, out-migration of young skilled personals and an extremely large floating population can be attributed to this phenomenon. However, the expansion of built-up area in Kolkata was divergent to these dynamics. The city landscape was majorly concretised. The foremost concern at this hour is that most of the development remains unbalanced. It reflects on the crucial problems associated with unplanned city growth on the loss of green space, productive cropland, wastelands, and wetlands.