Monitoring of Land and Land Cover Changes Using GIS Techniques in HumanInduced Mangroves Forest Areas in Indus Delta

Abstract

Since 1990 The Indus Delta mangroves have experienced major transformations in their land use and land cover (LULC) patterns. This investigation analyzed historical LULC modifications together with mangrove health assessments through spectral vegetative index measurements as well as socio-economic investigations for mangrove declining effects. Research findings showed major mangrove areas disappeared because of urban development alongside agricultural development and natural climate events such as cyclones together with growing sea levels. The increased presence of water bodies indicated the combined effects between flooding and rising sea levels as water bodies expanded simultaneously with agricultural development and built-up expansion which added stress to natural systems. The vegetation health indicators NDMI and NDVI show progressing decline since recent years while environmental stressors have proven to be leading causes of this negative change. Research data from local communities demonstrated that socio-economic challenges have created two major problems through job loss and greater risk exposure to climate-driven events. SPSS software performed Pearson correlation tests to verify the accuracy of each measurement item versus the total score in determining their appropriate application. The validity analysis shows strong relationships between important study questions mainly focusing on livelihood aspects and health indicators and income conditions, but some items need improvements or removal. Mangrove restoration initiatives have been established although ongoing human activities and climate change events endanger the sustainable state of the Indus Delta ecosystem thus requiring immediate conservation and mitigation actions.