Urban Modeling Using Cellular Automata: The Case of Algiers, Algeria

In recent decades, cellular automata (CA) have become popular for evaluating and forecasting urban transformation over time and space. In this paper, we explore the simulation of urban growth using cellular automata applied to the case of Algiers, the capital of Algeria. Our model of urban growth takes in consideration the population density, industrial and the weather conditions. The model was calibrated by comparison with results of previous maps on the basis of observation data for the years 2000 and 2014. This work is intended to provide a basis for simulation tools at the disposal of geographers and policy makers.