Sahil Choudhury and Mala Dutta
Abstract
Landscapes in urbanizing regions often undergo profound transformations that disrupt ecological balance and resource sustainability. This study examines the spatio-temporal dynamics of landuse and land cover in Dimoria Block, Assam, from 2010 to 2024, emphasizing the structural reorganization of the landscape through fragmentation analysis. Using geospatial techniques and quantitative landscape metrics, the research captures both the magnitude and spatial patterns of transformation. Findings reveal an accelerating shift from natural and agricultural surfaces toward urbanized land. Built-up areas significantly increased by 51.32 sq. km (11.48% relative increase), largely at the expense of agricultural land, which declined by 51.14 sq. km (-11.44%). Light vegetation and waterbodies also contracted (6.85 sq. km and 4.33 sq. km loss, respectively), while bare soil increased by 12.52 sq. km. Dense vegetation showed only a slight decrease of 1.52 sq. km. Fragmentation metrics indicate significant landscape reorganization. Built-up areas became more fragmented, with edge density (ED) increasing from 54.08 m/ha to 94.98 m/ha. Agricultural lands experienced decline in patch density (PD) and mean patch size (MPS). At the landscape level, the Contagion Index (CONTAG) decreased from 32.90% to 29.82%, indicating reduced clustering. Shannonâs Diversity Index (SHDI) rose from 1.58 to 1.65, and Shannonâs Evenness Index (SHEI) increased from 0.88 to 0.92, collectively showing heightened landscape heterogeneity and a more fragmented distribution of LULC types. These structural changes pose risks to biodiversity, hydrological stability, and local livelihoods, highlighting the ecological costs of unplanned land conversion. The study underscores the need for targeted landuse policies that integrate urban planning with conservation and agricultural preservation for sustainable land management in peri-urban environments.