Impacts of landform dynamics on peri-urban livelihood in the southern outskirt of Kolkata municipal corporation

Peri-urban areas represent the interface between urban and rural landscapes and are characterized by rapid transformation driven by GIS-based urbanization and demographic shifts. This research investigates the dynamic and complex patterns of land use and land cover (LULC) change in peri-urban areas at the southern outskirt of Kolkata Metropolis, focusing on 142, 143, and 144 no urban wards as a case study from 2011 to 2021. The LULC changes are systematically identified and classified, including Tree cover, Fallow Land with Shrubs, Agricultural land, Water Bodies, and Built-up areas. The research identifies several key drivers of LULC change in the peri-urban context, including population growth, livelihood activities, and the impact of LULC in changing socio-economic and livelihood aspects. Spatially explicit analysis reveals the expansion of built-up areas at the expense of agricultural and natural land covers, indicating the intensifying urbanization process. Agricultural land loss was observed in Purba Barisha (− 36%), followed by Kalua (− 31%), Chakthakurani (− 27%), and Ramkantapur (− 27%). In addition to the biophysical changes, the analysis assesses the social and economic implications of land use change on peri-urban communities, including livelihoods, access to resources, and quality of life. The findings of this research highlight the need for sustainable LULC planning and management strategies in the peri-urban areas to mitigate adverse environmental and socio-economic consequences. This research serves as a reference for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners engaged in urban and regional planning and those concerned with the sustainability and resilience of peri-urban landscapes in the face of ongoing urbanization and LULC change.