Spatiotemporal Analysis of Road Network Expansion and its Impact on Carbon Emissions, Built-Up Area, and Rainfall Patterns: A Case Study (2014-2023)

Background and Objective: Urban expansion and environmental changes in Dhaka over the past decade have significantly transformed its landscape, impacting road networks, built-up areas, rainfall patterns, and carbon emissions. This study analyzes these key factors using spatial data to understand their environmental and socio-economic implications. Materials and Methods: This study examined urban expansion, rainfall patterns, and CO₂ emissions in Dhaka from 2014 to 2023 using geospatial data. Datasets from OSM, CHIRPS, and EDGAR were analyzed using ArcGIS and MATLAB. Spatial changes were visualized through network analysis, emission mapping, and hotspot detection. Results: The findings reveal a substantial increase in the road network, enhancing connectivity but also contributing to traffic congestion and rising emissions. The built-up area has expanded rapidly, replacing green spaces with urban infrastructure, intensifying the urban heat island effect, and increasing energy demands. Changes in rainfall patterns indicate a shift in microclimate conditions, affecting air quality and exacerbating urban flooding due to reduced natural infiltration. The carbon emissions have significantly risen, driven by increased vehicular movement, industrialization, and deforestation, leading to severe air pollution and climate instability. These trends highlight the urgent need for sustainable urban planning, emission control policies, and green infrastructure development to mitigate environmental degradation. Conclusion: This study emphasizes the importance of integrating renewable energy solutions, enhancing public transport systems, and adopting eco-friendly urban expansion strategies to ensure a balanced and sustainable future for Dhaka.