ABSTRACT
: With the populace of Sagar Island on the rise, the neighboring natural ecosystems are undergoing persistent alterations. In light of this, a study was performed to examine the connections between built-up expansion and the conversion of agricultural land throughout 2000–2020. By utilizing the geographic information system and employing the Random Forest classification method, the images of the island captured by Landsat TM in 2000 and Landsat OLI in 2020 were classified into distinct categories, including agricultural land, built-up regions, and other types. From 2000 to 2020, the analysis exposed an almost quadruple augmentation in constructed zones, surging from 1,427.40 to 5,477.58 ha. In a span of two decades (2000-2020), the expansion of urban land caused the transformation of 2,067.45 ha of farmland. The initial built-up area of Sagar Island in 2000 of 1,427.40 ha has now grown by an impressive 283.75%. For decision-makers seeking to promote sustainable land use in this region, it is crucial to consider the findings of this study when implementing effective strategies.
