The Effect of the Population Growth on Urban Sprawl in Ramtha City by Using Remote Sensing Applications and Geographical Information Systems

Abstract

This study seeks to determine the proportion and numbers of population in Ramtha city, and to analyze satellite images (LANDSAT) to know the spatial distribution of urban areas in Ramtha city and their developments during during the study period from (2010-2022). The study is based on a number of diverse statistical provinces to find out the rates and averages of changes in the number of population, the patterns of urban sprawl as well as the change in the distribution of urban in order to achieve the objectives of the study.

      The research concluded that the natural increase and the Syrian refugee and migration movements have a fundamental role in increasing the population numbers and population density therein, and that this increase has a direct impact on the increase in urban sprawl and the expansion of urban areas in the various neighborhoods in Ramtha city, and that the correlation between population changes and the change in Urban areas indicate a strong direct correlation between these two factors, with the correlation coefficient reaching r = (0.925). The study also recommended the necessity of developing a comprehensive plan for Ramtha city that takes into account directing the urban policy in the correct manner, and exploiting the potentials and resources of the regions in an optimal manner.