Application of Remote Sensing and Geotechnical Data for Monitoring Environmental Impact of Urban Expansion on Soil Stability

Abstract

Urban expansion poses a significant threat to the stability of soils, especially in areas with sensitive geotechnical characteristics. This research explores the application of remote sensing techniques combined with geotechnical investigations to monitor the environmental impact of urban development on soil stability in a rapidly growing metropolitan area. Multi-temporal satellite images from Landsat-8 and SPOT were processed to analyze changes in land use and vegetation cover over a period of 15 years. Concurrently, soil samples were collected at strategic locations and analyzed for key geotechnical properties such as cohesion, angle of internal friction, and plasticity index. A correlation analysis was performed between remote sensing-derived indices (such as NDVI and land surface temperature) and geotechnical parameters to establish potential links between urbanization and soil degradation. Spatial temporal analysis revealed a significant decrease in vegetation cover and increased surface imperviousness, contributing to surface runoff and soil erosion. Statistical models demonstrated a negative correlation between NDVI and soil plasticity, indicating reduced soil binding capacity in urbanized zones. The study presents a monitoring framework that integrates remote sensing and geotechnical data to proactively assess environmental impacts of urban sprawl.

KEYWORDS: Remote Sensing, Urban Expansion, Soil Stability, Geotechnical Properties, Environmental Monitoring