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A Study of Urban Heat Islands and Health Vulnerabilities in Dhaka City

Students & Supervisors

Student Authors
Khadiza Tul Nur Aiman
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science & Engineering, FST
Supervisors
Md. Mortuza Ahmmed
Associate Professor, Faculty, FST

Abstract

"Background The rapid urbanization of Dhaka city has turned many green areas into concrete buildings and tarred roads. As a result, the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect is intensifying and cities are becoming 4 to 6 degrees Celsius hotter than rural areas. This is increasing the risk of heatstroke, respiratory problems, heart disease and death. The poor, children, the elderly and those who work outdoors during the day are the most affected. The IPCC has said that heat-related deaths Objective This study aims to analyze the distribution and geography of the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect in Dhaka and its relationship to public health. In addition, its purpose is to propose sustainable urban design strategies such as green infrastructure, green roofs, and urban greening, increase public awareness, and provide guidance to policymakers towards environmentally friendly urban planning. Records and heat-related illness data were combined with demographic data to identify vulnerable populations. In addition, mitigation strategies such as green roofs, urban greening, and green infrastructure have been evaluated. Methodology This study analyzed the variation in land surface temperature in Dhaka using satellite data (Landsat thermal images) and ground-based temperatures.UHI (Urban Heat Island) hotspots were identified using GIS technology and compared with densely populated areas, green spaces, and water bodies. Hospital will increase as temperatures rise in the future. Result The study found that the city center and densely populated areas of Dhaka are 4–6°C hotter than the surrounding green areas, demonstrating a strong urban heat effect (UHI). Heat-related illnesses, dehydration, and respiratory distress were more common among the elderly, children, and outdoor workers, Low-income areas are most at risk. Increasing green cover in cities by 20% and using green roofs can reduce average temperatures by 1–2°C, reducing health risks. Conclusion Dhaka's Urban Heat Island (UHI) phenomenon is adding a tremendous risk to public health, especially for the vulnerable population. Green infrastructure, roof gardens, and urban greenery are all capable of mitigating the heat and its rise. There needs to be an awareness generation among policymakers and the masses so that climate-resilient action could be taken adequately to protect health and augment urban livability."

Keywords

Urban Heat Island Climate change Sustainable city Green infrastructure Public health

Publication Details

  • Type of Publication:
  • Conference Name: 1st International Conference on Geosciences for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (ICGSDG)
  • Date of Conference: 14/11/2025 - 14/11/2025
  • Venue: University of Rajshahi
  • Organizer: Faculty of Geoscience
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