Land use, land cover change and related problems in Battalgazi (Malatya) district

In this thesis study, the land use and land cover changes that occurred in Battalgazi, one of the central districts of Malatya Province, between 2000 and 2020 were examined. The main objective of the research is to evaluate, from a geographical perspective, the impacts of rapid urbanization, industrialization, and increasing population density on the natural environment over the last two decades, and to identify the environmental and planning problems resulting from these processes. Within the scope of the study, CORINE (Coordination of Information on the Environment) datasets were utilized, and land use classes for the years 2000, 2010, and 2020 were analyzed using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). In addition, satellite images, Digital Elevation Models (DEM), and data from the Agricultural Land Evaluation (TAD) portal were integrated. Field observations, GPS data, and photographic documentation were also employed to support the analyses. According to the findings, there has been a significant decline in agricultural lands in Battalgazi between 2000 and 2020, with a considerable portion of these areas converted into residential and industrial zones. Particularly after 2010, due to population growth and the expansion of residential areas, nearly 15% of natural vegetation and agricultural lands were opened to construction. Conversely, the proportion of artificial surfaces (residential, industrial, and transportation areas) increased rapidly. As a result of these transformations, various urban and environmental problems—such as irregular zoning, traffic congestion, inadequate infrastructure, environmental pollution, and the degradation of historical sites—have emerged. In conclusion, the transformation observed in Battalgazi's land use should be restructured within the framework of sustainability principles. The protection of natural resources, the efficient use of agricultural lands, and the implementation of environmentally balanced urban planning policies are of great importance for the district's sustainable development in the future.