Using Geospatial Computation Intelligence for Mapping Temporal Evolution of Urban Built-up in Selected Areas of the Ekurhuleni Municipality, South Africa

Jo-Anne Correia, Masengo Ilunga

Rapid urbanization in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality has transformed local landscapes, impacting stormwater management, rainfall, and temperature patterns. This study introduces a novel approach by integrating Google Earth Engine (GEE) with Geographical Information Systems (GIS) to analyze urban growth trends over multiple decades, highlighting both the spatial extent and the rate of expansion. Using geospatial analysis of remotely sensed data, this preliminary study mapped urban growth from 1990 to 2030, in the suburbs of Alberton, Boksburg, Brakpan and Kempton Park. The results demonstrated how readily available maps can be used to depict the rapid urban growth in the area of interest. Additionally, this study found substantial increases in impervious surfaces, which suggests increased runoff and reduced water infiltration into the soil, with adverse consequences on stormwater systems. Furthermore, such maps could be useful for urban planning and sustainable water resource management, with particular attention to monitoring built-up areas.

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