Urban Sprawl: Methods and Approaches in Urban Planning
摘要
Urbanization refers to the physical expansion of urban areas driven by population growth, which, according to UN estimates, accounts for approximately 55% of the global population. This increase is primarily due to migration and the concentration of people in peri-urban areas. However, unplanned urban growth significantly impacts natural resources, leading to urban sprawl. Urban sprawl is characterized by dispersed, uneven expansion along highways and into peri-urban regions surrounding cities. It is considered a major challenge to sustainable development, emphasizing the need for effective urban planning to optimize resource utilization and infrastructure allocation. This paper explores various methods and approaches in urban planning to assess and manage urban sprawl. The extent of sprawl is measured using standard image processing techniques such as image extraction, rectification, restoration, classification, and Shannon’s entropy. Additionally, primary spatial indicators like built-up areas are analyzed to quantify urban expansion. Geographic Information Systems (GIS), combined with collateral data, play a crucial role in examining the growth, spatial patterns, and extent of sprawl. Through spatial and temporal analysis, it becomes possible to identify sprawl patterns and predict future trends. This study also evaluates urban planning interventions, including master plans and regional plans, in addressing urban sprawl. Ultimately, this research highlights the extent of urban sprawl over time using GIS-based analysis.