Urban heat islands (UHIs) have become a significant phenomenon in Indian cities, contributing the frequency and intensity of heat waves. Analyze the underlying factors contributing to this phenomenon and critically assess the existing mitigation strategies.

Urban heat islands UHI refer to the geographical phenomenon seen in cities or other larger urban which have centers are abnormally heated than the surrounding nearby area. Urban heat islands: - Increase in the frequency of heatwaves - Increase in the location of heatwaves - Effect in vulnerable urban population - Intensity of heatwaves Factors contributing to heat [islands]: 1) Use of heat absorbing materials for construction of infrastructure like [TA] Asphalt, Cement, etc