Ecological Quality Assessment of Five Smart Cities in India: a Remote Sensing Index-Based Analysis

This study investigates spatial distribution and comparison of remote sensing ecological index (RSEI) variables in five smart cities in India: Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Kochi, Jaipur, and New Delhi. The RSEI variables analysed include greenness, wetness, dryness, and heat. The study examines the correlation between these variables and their impact on the ecological conditions of the cities. The results reveal variations in the distribution of the RSEI variables among the cities, with Bhopal and New Delhi having higher percentage of high greenness areas compared to the other cities. Kochi stands out with the highest percentage of high wetness and greenness areas. The comparison of RSEI values indicates that Kochi and New Delhi have better ecological environments, while Jaipur lags behind with the lowest RSEI value. Bhopal and Bhubaneswar show moderate ecological conditions. The study also explores the relationship between ecological conditions and air and ground water quality. Kochi and New Delhi show acceptable air quality, while Bhopal and Bhubaneswar have moderate conditions, and Jaipur has unacceptable air quality. Water quality assessment reveals acceptable conditions in Bhopal, New Delhi, and Kochi, moderate conditions in Bhubaneswar, and very poor conditions in Jaipur. In conclusion, Kochi and New Delhi emerge as cities with better ecological, water, and air quality conditions. The presence of natural vegetation cover and planned green spaces contribute to their favourable environmental conditions. Bhopal and Bhubaneswar exhibit moderate ecological conditions, while Jaipur faces challenges due to rapid urbanization and inappropriate planning. These findings emphasise the significance of considering ecological factors in evaluating the overall environmental quality of smart cities.