Modelling the anthropogenic deformation and density of fragmentation in the urban settlement area of Ankara (Türkiye)

Abstract

The migration from rural areas to cities, and the thereby increased growth in urban population, leads to the emergence of various anthropogenic issues in today’s world. The aim of this study is to showcase the anthropogenic density of deformation and fragmentation in the urban settlement area of Ankara, the capital city of Turkiye, by modelling according to a variety of criteria. This research model uses the correlation of inclination and its length, relative relief, NDVI, anthropogenic stress intensity, distribution of buildings, road network, urban pressure intensity, and urban development data to determine the deformation and fragmentation density separately. Subsequently, both results are analysed through over-analyse within the scope of the joint effect. The achieved results show that the density of deformation and fragmentation in the initial settlement centre of Ankara is high, while areas with high road network density and planned communities are found in the outer ring of those areas. The incurred deformation and fragmentation processes lead to the artificial erosion of the topography, deposition zones, disintegration of living spaces, and pattern changes, which results in ecological alterations in the city of Ankara.