Dynamics of Urban Expansion and Its Impacts on Land Use Changes at Suburban Fringe Areas of Ranchi and Patna Cities: a Comparative Study

Abstract

Accurate land use change detection over specific time intervals is essential for sustainable development planning. Understanding periurban land use transitions informs future land optimization strategies. Urban expansion management in large metropolitan areas is often challenging, highlighting the need for micro-community-level urban databases to support policy implementation and sustainable growth. This study compares urban sprawl and its impact on land use changes in the periurban areas of Ranchi and Patna cities. The study aims to analyze Land Use Land Cover (LULC) Change using a multi-temporal approach and assess urban expansion dynamics over the past 22 years for two cities. GIS and statistical measures are employed to study urban growth and plan for future sustainable development. Buffer proximity modes are used to analyze the periurban interface (PUI) from city centers and transition zones. Results indicate increased compactness in both cities due to infill growth, with rapid expansion observed in periurban and village areas. Changing landscape patterns have ecological implications, necessitating resilient land resource management strategies for regional planners and the scientific community. © 2025 Elsevier Inc.