Assessment of built-up area expansion in relation to population dynamics and temperature change in the HKH region: Insights for sustainable settlement development

The datasets on population dynamics, and temperature were derived using the above code and built-up area was calculated using the ArcGIS model as show in the above. This study provides a comprehensive assessment of the spatiotemporal patterns of built-up areas, population dynamics, and temperature changes in the HKH region over the past two decades (2000–2020). Using bivariate analysis, the research examines correlations between these variables and reveals that the annual average expansion rate of built-up areas was 1.70 times greater than the population growth rate. By integrating built-up, population, and temperature data, the region was classified into a 4×4 priority matrix (ranging from low to high), offering a novel approach for decision-makers, planners, and investors to develop strategies for sustainable settlement development.