Effect of Urban Tree Planting Campaigns on Temperature Reduction in Lahore’S Busy Markets

Abstract

The urban heat islands (UHIs) are a worrying problem to the giant urban metropolises in third world countries, such as Lahore, Pakistan. This has led to increased surface and air temperature in commercial locations due to rapid urbanization, high vehicular emissions as well as the loss of vegetation. This is a pilot study that examines how urban tree planting campaign will reduce the temperature in the busiest markets in Lahore City, which include Liberty Market, Anarkali Bazaar, and Ichhra. The study examines the connection between city vegetation and enhancement of microclimate, based on satellite images and local temperature measurements and field data. The initial results reveal that the tree-cover market areas record 2 to 3 degrees C lower surfaces than areas without trees highlighting the need of tree forestry as a sustainable climate change response. The paper demonstrates that there is an urgent need to develop integrated urban greening measures to reduce heat stress, expand thermal comfort, and increase environmental sustainability in business areas in Lahore.