72

Before assessing and investigating the man made features upon the physical

landscape in the form of spatial distribution pattern of settlements, distribution of

socio-economic facilities and amenities, level of development in terms of amenities

and facilities, their spacing, hierarchy, gap, centrality score and the analysis regarding

the rural growth centres and its spatial arrangement in the study area for balanced

regional planning and development, it is essential to have an overview of physico-

cultural and socio-economic determinants, which shapes the geographical identity of a

region. It is assumed that the physico- cultural and socio-economic determinant has a

direct bearing in shaping and reshaping of the visual imprints made by the man upon

the physical landscape. All these determinants are discussed in sequent manner.

2.1 GENERAL SETTING

Aligarh is one of the district of Uttar Pradesh, which is located in the north

western part of Ganga Yamuna doab and forms a part of Agra division. It is situated

at a distance of about 130 km. from New Delhi. It extends from 270 27’ N to 280 11’ N

latitudes and 770 27’ E to 780 38’ E longitudes. Its elevation from mean sea level is

611.62 feet (190 meters). It is bounded by Bulandshahr district in the north, the

boundary is purely conventional; the extreme north eastern boundary is formed by the

river Ganga which separates Aligarh from Badaun district where as the extreme north

western boundary is formed by river Yamuna which separates Aligarh from Gurgaon

district of Haryana state. On the west and south west lies the district of Mathura,

Hathras in the south and Etah in the east (fig. 2.1). The greatest breadth is about 116

kilometers whereas maximum stretch from north to south is about 62 kilometers. As

per census 2011 the district has a population of 3,673,849 persons, out of which

1,958,536 are male and 1,715,313 are female whereas in 2001 the district had a

population of 2,992,286 persons, distributed over an area of 3,650 sq.km. The spatial

73

N

505 10 15

Km

#S

#S

#S#S

#S

#S

#

#

#

#

#

#

#

#

#

#

#

#

H

A

RYA

N

A

Tehsil Boundary

District Boundary

Block Boundary

#S District Headquarter#S Tehsil Headquarters# Block Headquarters

INDEX

BU

L

AN

D SH

A

RH

BA

D A

U

N

H

A

T

H

R

A

S

MA T

H

U

R

A

Aligarh DistrictAdministrative Divisions

(2001)

Tappal

Khair

Chandaus

Lodha

Jawan Sikandarpur

Iglas

Gonda

Atrauli

Bijauli

Gangiri

Akrabad

Dhanipur

Location of Aligarh District

Fig. 2.1

77045’ 78000’ 78015’ 78030’

28015’

28000’

27045’

28015’

28000’

27045’

77045’ 78000’ 78015’ 78030’

Source: Census of India 2001, Uttar Pradesh, Administrative Atlas, Volume I.

74

distribution of area is uneven, tahsil Atrauli contains the largest area while tahsil Iglas

has the smallest area in the district. The district has witnessed 2,127,592 and 864,649

as the rural and urban population respectively. As per 2011 census density of

population of Aligarh district is 1007 persons per square kilometers which is greater

than both the state (828 persons per sq. km.) and national level as well (382 persons

per sq.km). Based on administrative convenience, the district has been divided into

sub divisions i.e. tehsils namely Koil, Khair, Gabhana, Atrauli, and Iglas. These

tehsils are further sub- divided into 12 development block namely Atrauli, Gangiri,

Bijauli, Jawan Sikanderpur, Chandaus, Khair, Tappal, Dhanipur, Lodha, Akrabad,

Iglas, and Gonda. These sub units are used as basis for micro level planning and

development (table 2.1 and fig. 2.1). Each block is further divided into nyay

panchayats and each nyay panchayat almost possess 15 revenue villages. There are

1210 revenue villages in the district. Out of which 30 villages are declared as

uninhabited.

Table 2.1 Aligarh District: Administrative Division (2001)

Source: Census of India 2001, District Census Handbook, Part XII A & B, Series-10

Tehsil Blocks Number of Villages Inhabited Villages

Uninhabited Villages

Total

1.Atrauli 1.Atrauli 110 3 113 2. Gangiri 99 2 111 3. Bijauli 85 7 92

2. Ghabhana 4. JawanSikanderpur 108 1 109 5. Chandaus 92 2 94

3. Khair 6. Khair 96 0 96 7. Tappal 87 5 92

4. Koil 8. Dhanipur 98 0 98 9. Lodha 133 7 140 10. Akrabad 86 3 89

5.Iglas 11. Iglas 103 0 103 12. Gonda 83 0 83

Total 1,180 30 1,210

75

2.2 PHYSICAL SETTING

2.2.1 Physiography

The district lying in the upper Ganga-Yamuna doab is a plain of remarkable

fertility sloping gently from north to south and south east. The surface is varied by

several depressions, formed by the river valleys and natural drainage lines, while the

elevations consist merely of slight ridges of sand. The most prominent of these ridges

are to be found in tahsil Khair to the north-west, where there are three irregular lines

running from north to south and to the west of Aligarh there are two parallel lines of

high sandy ground running north to south1(fig.2.2).

Topographically, the District represents a shallow trough of sauce pan like

appearance. On the basis of the factors like geology, soils, topography, climate and

natural vegetation the district has been divided into the following five physiographic

divisions.

1. The Ganga Khadar

2. The Yamuna Khadar

3. The Eastern Uplands

4. The Western Uplands

5. The Central Low-lying Tract

Ganga Khadar is found along the Ganga river bifurcated by its natural levee from

other regions. It covers only a portion of Atrauli tahsil. The physical characteristics of

the region are determined by the Ganga River which flows on its northern boundary.

It is a low lying area which is flooded during rains. Sand dunes and shallow

depression are the main physiographic features of the region. From the low Khadar of

the Ganga river in the east, the level of the district rises sharply to the high uplands

1 Gazetteer of India, Uttar Pradesh, District Aligarh, published by the government of Uttar Pradesh (Department of District Gazatteers), U.P., Lucknow, 1987, p.6.

76

5 0 5 10 15 20

Km

N

Yamuna KhadarWestern UplandsCentral LowlandsEastern UplandGanga Khadar

INDEX

Source: Survey of India Topographical Sheet Number 53H, 53L, 54E, 54I

Aligarh District Physiographic Regions

Fig. 2.2

77

known as Eastern Uplands which crown the old flood bank of the river and then

descends inland gradually to a depression, drained by the Nim and Chhoiya rivers,

after which, it rises again up to the banks of the Kali Nadi. Along the right bank of the

Kali Nadi, is another sandy to silty belt rising from the low and narrow Khadar belt of

that stream. Adjoining it is a fertile belt of loam soil which sinks gradually into the

broad central depression called Central Lowlands. It is a broad belt of low-lying land

runs from north-west to south-east, which is the continuation of the belt which begins

from the district of Meerut, and passing through the Gaziabad and Bulandshahar

districts, enters Aligarh in Koil tehsil in the north. The depression is narrow in the

north and gets wider towards the south and eventually enters the adjoining district of

Etah. This tract is characterized by imperfect drainage and numerous jhils (lakes) in

which the surface water collects. Beyond this depression, the surface rises into a level

plain known as the Western Uplands.

Beyond Western Uplands the region of Yamuna Khadar is found along the

Yamuna River in a narrow strip having flat plain sloping towards south. The Yamuna

River forms its western boundary but the impact of this river on the physiography is

very insignificant. There are few dry streams and shallow depression which retain

water during the dry months also.

2.2.2 Drainage System

The rivers of Aligarh flow from north to south and south-east following the

general slope of the land. In Aligarh district there are several rivers which constitute

an important feature of the landscape. River Ganga and Yamuna form the eastern and

western boundaries of the district for small distances, their respective length being

about 15 to 20 kms. Tributaries of river Ganga run through the eastern parts while

tributaries of river Yamuna run through the central and western parts of the district.

78

The drainage pattern of the district is governed by these two mighty rivers which form

the doab and receive the water from all the small rivers. There are many other small

rivers namely Senger, Rind, Karan, Kali, and Neem which flow in the district. The

Ganga and Yamuna are perennial in nature because they have their sources in the

snow covered peaks of Himalayas while the other rivers are seasonal in their nature

(fig. 2.3).

The Ganga River

The Ganga River having its source in the snow covered peaks of Himalayas, enter

the great plain at Haridwar, from there it flows southwards up to Bulandshahr and

enters into Aligarh and takes a south easterly direction separating Aligarh from

Badaun. The River generally follows a belt but in rainy season it generally moves

from one side to another side within a belt of 5 to 6 kms. The River changes its course

from time to time but the change in the course has been reduced to some extent with

the construction of the lower Ganga canal at Narora.

The Yamuna River

Yamuna River has its source in the Himalayas. It flows along the north western

border of Aligarh and then moves towards south into Mathura and Agra district. Its

width and velocity changes from rainy season to summer season.

Kali Nadi

Kali nadi rises in Muzaffar Nagar district and moving south wards through the

district of Meerut and Bulandshahr, enters into Aligarh. Kali is a perennial stream and

runs through a narrow valley marked by high banks. It takes south easterly course and

separates the Atrauli tehsil from Koil and Sikandra Rao tehsils. It is properly known

as river Kalindari. During the rainy months it overflows its banks and makes some

deposits of alluvial silt.

79

N

DrainsRivers

YAMUNA

RIVER

KARWAN

REV

RI

SE

NGAR

IR

VER

KAL

I

NA

D I

NE

EM

G

AN

G

A

REV

IR

AL

IGARHDRAIN

5 0 5 10 15 20

km

Source: Survey of India Topographical Sheet Number 53 H, 53 L, 54 E, 54 I

Aligarh District Drainage System

Fig. 2.3

80

Neem Nadi

Neem is a small stream that joins the Kali Nadi on its left bank. It is rarely dry in

summer season and overflows during the rainy season. The bed of this river has been

deepened to improve the drainage and its water is used for irrigation purpose.

Senger Nadi

It is a tributary of river Yamuna and rises from the central depression of Aligarh

district. It is usually dry during the summer months but during the rains it becomes a

very useful river. Due to scanty supply of water it is not useful for irrigation.

Rind Nadi

It is also known as Arind River rises in the central low lands of Aligarh and

moves southwards following a south- easterly direction. During cold and hot months

it becomes almost dry but during rainy season it gets flooded.

Karon Nadi

In some parts of Aligarh district it is also known as Karwan that passes through

Khair, Iglas and Hathras tehsils. It follows a north west to south east direction. In the

hot weather season it remains dry but during rainy season it attains a considerable

width.

Besides, these rivers there are artificial drains, which facilitate the drainage

systems of the district. The drain known as Aligarh drains as Ganda Nala is one of the

important drains of the district that is linked with the main streams of the district.

2.2.3 Climate

Climate is an important physical factor which influences the socio-economic

characteristics in any geographical area. The climate of Aligarh varies between the

two extremes of severe cold in winters (January maximum temperature 210 C and

minimum 70 C) and oppressive heat in summers (June maximum temperature 430 C to

81

46 0C). The district experiences tropical monsoon type of climate characterized by

semi-arid condition. There are four distinct seasons most commonly recognized.

i. Cold Weather Season (mid November to February)

ii. Hot Weather Season (March to mid June)

iii. Rainy Season (mid June to September)

iv. Season of Retreating Monsoon (October to mid November)

i. The Cold Weather Season

Cold weather season states from mid November and is characterized by cold and

dry air which blow continuously during the three months. During this season whole

district comes under the influence of the high pressure belt which develops over north

India owing to low temperature. In this season wind blow from high pressure area to

low pressure area that is from the land towards the sea. The beginning of this season

is marked by a considerable fall in temperature. The direction of prevailing winds is

normally from west and northwest to east and southeast with an average speed of

about 3.2 kms. per hour. The mean monthly temperature falls from November to

December and further in January as 200C, 16.10C, and 150C respectively. The diurnal

range of temperature during the winter months is high, making the nights cold while

the days are relatively warm.

An exception to the prevailing fine weather is the occurrence of winter rains

brought by the cold weather storms. The amount of rainfall caused by these

disturbances is small, irregular and sporadic. The total rainfall during December,

January and February are 9.7 cm, 1.65 cm, and 1.30 cm respectively. Hailstorms

which are sometimes accompanied by the cold weather storms may cause great injury

to the flowering plant.

82

ii. The Hot Weather Season

The hot weather season is characterized by rising temperature and falling

pressure. This season begins in March and continues till mid June. The mean

maximum and minimum temperature in March are 30.70C and 14.90C respectively.

The temperature continues to rise in April when the respective maximum and

minimum for the month are 41.70 C and 15.60 C. The month of May and June record

relatively high temperature. The hot days are characterized by intensive heat dry air

and low relative humidity. In the summer months hot and dry winds of great velocity

locally called as loo is a regular phenomenon. During the month of March, winds

blow with the average wind speed of about 5.5 kms. per hour where as in the month

of June it is 10.5 kms. per hour.

Another peculiar phenomenon of this season is the occurrence of dust and

thunderstorms usually occur in the afternoon locally known as andhis. There is

generally no rain during the summer months expect for the small amount

accompanied by the thunderstorms. This, too, is sporadic, short lived and highly

variable in its amount and incidence.

iii. Rainy Season

A Change occurs in the weather by the middle of June which is called the

burst of monsoon. This season is characterized by falling temperature and rising

humidity. The mean monthly temperature falls from 350 C in June to 31.70 C in July

and relative humidity increases from 27 % in May to 74 % in July. The rain generally

sets in by the middle of June and continue till the end of September or early October.

The average annual rainfall of the whole district is about 65 cm.

iv. The Season of Retreating Monsoon

The season of retreating monsoon is characterized by the hot and sticky

weather with a distinct rise in temperature which starts falling by the end of October.

83

During this season the skies are clear due to which day temperature is high but the

night temperature falls. Relative humidity during this period falls to 47 %. This period

is considered a transitional phase between the hot weather season and cool dry

weather.

2.2.4 Soils

Soil is one of the important natural resource which plays an active role in

carrying out all the agricultural activities to sustain the life of people. The soil of

Aligarh district is alluvial both old and new alluvium. The new alluvium is confined

to the flood plains of the rivers and their tributaries while the old alluvium is found in

the level plains above the flood level of the main rivers and their tributaries. Soils of

the region are subject to vary in terms of texture, ranging from sandy to loamy and

silty to clayey. Some ill drained areas exhibits saline and alkaline character of the soil

which is injurious to plant growth. Broadly, the study area has been classified into

following soil regions (fig. 1.4).

(1) The sandy soil tract

(2) The sandy loam soil tract

(3) The loamy soil tract

(4) The clayey loam soil tract

The Sandy Soil Tract

The sandy tract is located along both sides of river Ganga and Yamuna. This

type of soil varies in texture and structure. The colour of the soil varies from light

gray to ash gray. The ground water table is usually near the surface and during the

monsoon months it remains virtually on the surface itself. Agriculture in the Khadar

soil is precarious but whenever cultivation is possible, good crops are raised.

Sugarcane is also grown on these soils. However, it accounts for a very small portion

84

N

8 0 84

Km

16

Gravelly Loam of Yamuna KhadarStiff Loamy SoilSand or Sandy Loam Upland of WesternLoamy Soil of Central Alluvial TroughGrity Soil of Kali KhadarLoam and Sandy Loam of Eastern UplandsGanga Khadar Soil

Source: Gazetteers and Settlement Reports

Aligarh District Soil Regions

Fig. 2.4

85

of the total cultivated land.

The Sandy Loam Soil Tract

The sandy loam soil is spread over a sizeable area of the district. The soil is

more leached than other soils of Aligarh district, because the annual rainfall in this

region is more than in other regions. This type of soil occurs in the entire Atrauli

tehsil with the exception of narrow depression in the south and near the Ganga River.

The soil is generally sandy in texture and is brown or redish in colour. Water table is

very low, going at places 50 feet from the surface. The pH varies from neutral to

slightly alkaline.

The Loamy Tract

The loamy tract is found between the Khadar lands of the river Ganga and

Kali nadi. The surface texture varies from good quality loam to sandy loam. The soil

of this track is very fertile. The soils are light brown to brown and at places dark

brown in colour with marked alleviation of clay towards the bottom. The sub-soils

being comparatively heavier retain large quantities of water. The common crops of

the area cultivated in this soil type are millets and maize during the Kharif. Mixed

cropping of bajra and arher is also prevalent. The common Rabi crops are barley and

wheat, the former slightly more liked by cultivators.

The Clayey Loam Soil Tract

This type of soil runs from the north to south, generally parallel to the course

of the river Ganga. The drainage in this tract is bad and some part of this tract suffers

from water logging during the monsoon months. The tract is underlined by a thick pan

of Kankar, occurring in mild cases in the form of nodules which at places cement

together forming a stiff impenetrable rock in the bottom layers. This type of soil is

sticky and generally clayey or clayey loam in texture. It is gray, ash gray, or dark gray

86

in colour tending to become black when moist on sandy elevated tracts. Peas are also

successfully grown on these soils.

2.2.5 Vegetations

The study area lies in the sub-tropical region which has a deciduous type of

vegetation. The district was once largely covered with dhank jungles and was

gradually turned into a cultivable area. Some dhank jungles are still seen in scattered

patches in the clayey and usar tracts. In the Khadar of Ganga, there are several

stretches of jhau or tamarisk, an evergreen shrub, on the most recent alluvium of the

rivers. In the Khadar of Yamuna, there is a narrow belt of jhau which is followed by

broad stretches of waste covered with thatching grass. The district cannot be

described as well wooded. The eastern part, however, is more wooded than the

western one. Mango groves and those of other trees are ubiquitous in the eastern part

of the district. The canal authorities have utilized this region for growing useful

vegetation along the canals and the main channels. The western part of the district is

marked by a comparative absence of trees. The commonest tree found in the area is

babul, which grows wildly. Other trees include the nim, pipal, ber, faras, shisham,

gular, and jamun.

2.3 DEMOGRAPHIC SETTING

Demography is the study of the characteristics of human populations, with

reference to their growth, size, distribution, and density. The following characteristics

are discussed in sequent manner.

2.3.1 Growth of Population

The Aligarh district has witnessed a positive growth rate of population since

1901, with an exception of 1901-1921 which experienced negative growth rate of

total as well as rural population (table 2.2 and fig. 2.5). It is attributed to the fact that

87

the nation has experienced severe famine during 1897 and the district has not escaped

from its adverse impact on its natural growth. The maximum increase was however

recorded during the decade 1981-1991in both total (30.0 per cent) and rural

population (25.4 per cent) due to general improvement in medical and health facilities

and low level of literacy, while the lowest population growth has been recorded in

1911-1921 with -8.9 per cent in total population and -9.8 in rural population.

Block wise growth of rural and urban population is exhibited in table 2.3 and

fig. 2.6. The analysis reveals that the highest growth rate of rural population has been

recorded in block Lodha (25.31 per cent) while lowest growth rate of population has

been found in Tappal block (9.03 per cent). The variation in the growth of population

is attributed to the fact that Tappal block is characterized by low availability and

accessibility of health facilities as compared to block Lodha which is accessible point

of health facilities because of ill land trend system. The population growth in urban

areas has been recorded highest in Gangiri block and lowest in Jawan Sikandarpur

block with 56.12 per cent and -14.56 per cent respectively. Likewise maximum

increase in total population (block wise) has been observed in Lodha block (35.76 per

cent) followed by Iglas block (23.06 per cent).

2.3.2 Distribution of Population

Distribution of population shows the nature of man’s adjustments with

physical resources. It is the outcome of physical factors i.e., topography, fertility of

soil, climatic conditions, water availability and cultural factors i.e., agriculture,

irrigational facilities, industries, accessibility and means of communication.

Table 2.4 and fig. 2.7 shows the spatial distribution of population in the study

area at block level (in 2001). It is clear that distribution of rural population is almost

uniform, because of prevalence of the physical homogeneity in the area. Out of the

88

-15

-10

-5

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

Gro

wth

Rat

e (%

)

Decadal Year

Aligarh District Growth of Population

(1901-2011)

Total

Rural

Table 2.2 Aligarh District: Growth Rate of Population (1901-2011)

Year Total Rural Population Absolute

Decennial Decennial Variation (per cent)

Population Absolute Decennial

Decennial Variation (per cent)

1901 869,799 - - 725,971 - - 1911 844,344 -25,455 -2.9 721,200 -4,771 -0.7 1921 769,060 -75,284 -8.9 650,225 -70,975 -9.8 1931 848,737 79,677 10.4 716,341 66,116 10.2 1941 994,253 145,516 17.1 829,992 113,651 15.9 1951 1,118,017 123,764 12.4 917,170 87,178 10.5 1961 1,278,945 160,928 14.4 1,075,989 158,819 17.3 1971 1,541,536 262,591 20.5 1,268,242 192,253 17.9 1981 1,884,955 343,419 22.3 1,443,236 174,994 13.8 1991 2,449,597 564,642 30.0 1,810,294 367,058 25.4 2001 2,992,286 542,689 22.2 2,127,592 317,298 17.5 2011 3,673,849 681,563 22.8 2,457,268 32,9676 15.5

Source: Census of India 2001, District Census Handbook, Part XII A& B, Series-10and provisional data of 2011.

Fig. 2.5

89

Table 2.3 Aligarh District: Block Wise Growth of Population (1991-2001)

Block Rural Population Urban Population Total Population

1991 2001 Per cent

change

1991 2001 Per cent

change

1991 2001 Per cent

change Tappal 155646 169705 9.03 13276 16973 27.85 168922 186678 10.51

Chandaus 148406 174333 17.47 - - - 148406 174333 17.47

Khair 144360 166015 15.00 21770 27667 27.09 166130 193682 16.58

Jawan Sikanderpur

176187 211390 19.98 16095 13752 -14.56 192282 225142 17.09

Lodha 160114 200642 25.31 480520 669087 32.24 640634 869729 35.76

Dhanipur 144371 175008 21.22 25230 29033 15.07 169601 204041 20.31

Gonda 138455 166915 20.55 - - - 138,455 166,915 20.55

Iglas 127126 155032 21.95 12,950 17,352 33.99 140,076 172,384 23.06

Atrauli 164313 180899 10.09 35135 43744 24.50 199448 224643 12.63

Gangiri 196257 227328 15.83 13343 20831 56.12 209600 248159 18.40

Akrabad 122466 145040 18.43 20984 26255 25.12 143450 171295 19.41

Bijauli 132593 155285 17.11 - - - 132593 155285 17.11

Source: Computed from District Statistical Magazine, 1995 and 2005.

Table 2.4 Aligarh District: Block wise Population Distribution (2001)

Source: Computed from District Statistical Magazine, 2005

Block Population

Rural Per cent Urban Per cent Total Per cent

Tappal 169705 7.98 16973 1.96 186678 6.24

Chandaus 174333 8.19 - - 174333 5.83

Khair 166015 7.80 27667 3.20 193682 6.47

JawanSikanderpur 211390 9.94 13752 1.59 225142 7.52

Lodha 200642 9.43 669087 77.38 869729 29.07

Dhanipur 175008 8.23 29033 3.36 204041 6.82

Gonda 166915 7.84 - - 166915 5.58

Iglas 155032 7.29 17352 2.00 172384 5.76

Atrauli 180899 8.50 43744 5.06 224643 7.51

Gangiri 227328 10.68 20831 2.41 248159 8.29

Akrabad 145040 6.82 26255 3.03 171295 5.72

Bijauli 155285 7.30 - - 155285 5.19

Total 2127592 100 864694 100 2992286 100

90

N

5 0 5 10 15

KM

0

10

20

30

Tappal

0

20

40

Akrabad

0

20

Bijauli

0102030

Atrauli

0

20

40

60

Gangiri

0

20

40

Lodha 0

20

40

Dhanipur

0

10

20

30

Khair

-20

0

20

40

Jawan

0

10

20

Chandaus

0

20

40

Gonda

0

50

Iglas

Per cent change in Rural Population

Per cent change in Urban Population

Per cent change in Total Population

Index

Aligarh District Block wise Growth of Population

(1991-2001)

Fig. 2.6

91

N

5 0 5 10 15

KM

0

5

10

Akrabad

0

5

10

Bijauli

0

5

10

Atrauli

0

20

Gangiri

0

50

100

Lodha 0

5

10

Dhanipur

0

5

10

Khair

0

10

20

Jawan 0

5

10

Tappal

0

5

10

Chandaus

0

10

Gonda

0

5

10

Iglas

Aligarh District Block wise Distribution of Population

(2001)

Rural Population (in %)

Urban Population (in %)

Total Population (in %)

Index

Fig. 2.7

92

total rural population, highest and lowest number of rural population has been

observed in Gangiri block (10.68 per cent) and Akrabad block (6.82 per cent)

respectively. Significant difference in the distribution of urban population among

different blocks of Aligarh district is seen. Highest and lowest number of urban

population has been observed in Lodha block and Jawan Sikanderpur block with

77.38 per cent and 1.59 per cent respectively.

2.3.3 Population Density

Population density is the number of persons inhabited per square kilometer of

the area. It is the outcome of the man environment relationship. As per 2001 census,

the density of population in the district was 820 as compared to 690 in Uttar Pradesh

and 324 of India. It has increased to 1007 as compared to 828 in Uttar Pradesh and

382 of India as per 2011 census. Table 2.5 and fig. 2.8 shows block wise density of

rural population. It is seen that Jawan Sikanderpur block has highest density of rural

population i.e., 709 persons per square km. which is very near to Bijauli block having

695 persons per square km. followed by Lodha block and Atrauli block with 684

Table 2.5 Aligarh District: Density of Rural Population (2001)

Block Area (in sq. km) Population Density Tappal 413.25 169705 410 Chandaus 318.93 174333 546 Khair 317.90 166015 522 JawanSikanderpur 297.88 211390 709 Lodha 293.15 200642 684 Dhanipur 279.41 175008 626 Gonda 268.83 166915 620 Iglas 253.50 155032 611 Atrauli 272.79 180899 663 Bijauli 223.19 155285 695 Gangiri 350.48 227328 648 Akrabad 289.90 145040 500 Total 3579.20 2127592 594 Source: Computed from Census of India 2001, District Census Handbook, Part XII A & B, Series-10

93

N

INDEXHigh

Medium

Low

> 648

< 558

648-558

No. of persons/sq.km

KM

15105 0 5

Aligarh DistrictBlock-wise Density of Rural Population

2001

Fig. 2.8

94

persons per square km. and 663 persons per square km. respectively. Medium density

of rural population has been observed in Gangiri (648 persons per square km.),

Dhanipur (626 persons per square km.), Gonda (620 persons per square km), and Iglas

(611 persons per square km.), while the lowest density of rural population has been

seen in Chandaus (546 persons per square km), Khair (522 persons per square km.),

Akrabad (500 persons per square km.), and Tappal block (410 persons per square

km.).

2.3.4: Sex Ratio

Sex Ratio is a term used to define number of females per 1000 males. It's a

great source to find the equality of males and females in a society at a given period of

time. Table 2.6 reveals that the sex ratio in the district was 862, while it was 898 and

933 in the state of Uttar Pradesh and India respectively (2001 Census). This has

increased to 876 in Aligarh district as compared to 908 and 940 in Uttar Pradesh and

India respectively (2011 Census). In the rural areas of the district the sex ratio is low

i.e. 856 females per 1000 males as compared to 876 females per 1000 males in urban

areas which is attributed to the prevalence of illiteracy and unawareness in rural areas

causing low sex ratio. Table 2.7 and fig. 2.9 shows block wise sex ratio in Aligarh

district. Among blocks the sex ratio varies from 833 in Bijauli to 872 in Jawan

Sikanderpur block.

Table 2.6 Aligarh District: Distribution of Populat ion by Sex and Sex Ratio (2001)

Source: Census of India, 2001.

Area Population Sex Ratio Persons Males Females

Total 2992286 1607402 1384884 862 Rural 2127592 1146456 981136 856 Urban 864694 460946 403748 876

95

N

INDEXHigh

Medium

Low

> 862

< 850

862-850

per 1000 males

KM

15105 0 5

Aligarh DistrictBlock-wise Distribution of Sex Ratio

2001

Fig. 2.9

96

Table 2.7 Aligarh District: Block Wise Distribution of Sex Ratio (2001)

S. No. Blocks Sex Ratio 1. Akrabad 857 2. Gangiri 854 3. Bijauli 833 4. Atrauli 861 5. JawanSikanderpur 872 6. Dhanipur 863 7. Lodha 849 8. Chandaus 857 9. Khair 867 10. Tappal 866 11 Gonda 841 12. Iglas 846

Total District (Rural) 856 Source: Census of India 2001, District Census Handbook, Part XII A & B, Series-10

2.3.5: Literacy

Literacy is described as the ability to read and write which is taken as the

percentage of literate population to the total population of above 06 years of age. As

per 2001 census literacy rate in the district was 58.5 per cent as compared to 56.3

percent in the state of Uttar Pradesh and 64.84 per cent in India. Whereas in 2011 it

has increased up to 69.61 per cent in the district as compared to 69.72 per cent and

Table 2.8 Aligarh District: Block wise number of Literate Persons and Literacy Percentage

(2001) S.

No. Block Literate Persons Literacy Percentage

Male Female Total Male Female Total 1. Tappal 56179 25352 81531 76.50 39.97 59.57 2. Chandaus 59135 28766 87901 77.52 44.36 62.28 3. Khair 55183 25158 80341 77.50 41.00 60.60 4. Jawan

Sikanderpur 68044 33044 101088 74.88 42.03 59.64

5. Lodha 64976 32063 97039 74.58 43.62 60.41 6. Dhanipur 53694 25760 79454 70.70 39.70 56.42 7. Gonda 58094 24167 82261 70.61 39.79 61.53 8. Iglas 52194 22750 74944 76.79 40.03 60.05 9. Atrauli 57280 24483 81763 72.95 36.34 56.05 10. Bijauli 40094 14144 54238 58.36 25.03 43.31 11. Gangiri 57245 21714 78959 57.88 29.05 43.32 12. Akrabad 45399 21090 66489 72.31 39.60 57.30

Total Rural 667517 298491 966008 72.19 38.04 56.51 Total Urban 270975 183621 454596 70.55 54.68 63.15 Total District 938492 482112 1420604 71.71 43.03 58.48

Source: Census of India 2001, District Census Handbook, Part XII A & B, Series-10

97

N

INDEXHigh

Medium

Low

> 59.98

< 53.44

59.98-53.44

In per cent

KM

15105 0 5

Aligarh DistrictBlock-wise Literacy

2001

Fig. 2.10

98

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

1971 1981 1991 2001 2011

Per

cent

age

Year

Male Female Total

Aligarh District Literacy Rate

(1971-2011)

74.04 per cent in Uttar Pradesh and India respectively. Table 2.8 reveals that in the

district 71.71 per cent of the male population is literate as compared to 68.8 percent in

the state. However, among females the literacy rate in the district is 43.03 per cent as

compared to 42.2 per cent at the state level. In the district literacy rate is 63.15 per

cent in urban areas as compared to 56.51 per cent in rural areas. The literacy rate

among blocks varies between 43.31 per cent in Bijauli and 62.28 percent in Chandaus

block (fig. 2.10).

Table 2.9 Aligarh District: Changing Literacy Rate (1971-2011)

Year Male (%) Female (%) Total (%) 1971 35.10 12.60 24.90 1981 44.00 16.20 31.30 1991 59.91 26.81 44.87 2001 71.71 43.03 58.48 2011* 80.24 57.48 69.61

Source: Computed from Census of India 1971, 1981, 1991, Aligarh District Census Handbook, Part

XII A & B, Series-10, 2001 *Census of India 2011, Provisional Population Totals-Uttar Pradesh-Data Sheet

Fig. 2.11

99

Table 2.9 and fig. 2.11 shows increasing trend of literacy rate. During 1971,

district attained 24.90 per cent literacy rate of which 35.10 per cent males and 12.60

per cent females were literate. During 1981 literacy rate was 31.30 per cent, followed

by 44.87 per cent during 1991, 58.48 per cent in 2001 and finally 69.61 per cent in

2011.

2.3.6: Occupational Structure

Occupational structure refers to the aggregate distribution of occupations in

society, classified according to skill level, economic function, or social status. It can

be seen from table 2.10, the economy of the district is primarily agricultural as

attributed by the fact that cultivators constitute 32.4 per cent of the total workers

(main + marginal) and remaining 67.6 per cent of total workers are engaged as

agricultural labourers (19.9 per cent), household industry workers (6.6 per cent) and

other workers (41.1 per cent) in this district. The percentage of female cultivators is

25.7 per cent which is very less as compared to 34.1 per cent of male cultivators in the

district. The percentage of agricultural labourers (19.9 per cent) and household

industry workers (6.6 per cent) is very low in the district.

Table 2.10 Aligarh District: Occupational Structure of Population (2001) Occupational Category

Total Rural Urban

Persons Male Female Persons Male Female Persons Male Female

Total number of Workers (main+marginal)

916,298 (30.6)

731,930 (45.5)

184,368 (13.3)

695,501 (32.7)

533,336 (46.5)

162,165 (16.5)

220,797 (25.5)

198,594 (43.1)

22,203 (5.5)

Cultivators 297,058 (32.4)

249,669 (34.1)

47,389 (25.7)

290,719 (41.8)

244,177 (45.8)

46,542 (28.7)

6,339 (2.9)

5,492 (2.8)

847 (3.8)

Agricultural Labourers

182,576 (19.9)

135,984 (18.6)

46,592 (25.3)

173,791 (25.0)

128,498 (24.1)

45,293 (27.9)

8,785 (4.0)

7,486 (3.8)

1,299 (5.9)

Household Industry Workers

60,564 (6.6)

33,518 (4.6)

27,046 (14.7)

43,362 (6.2)

20,034 (3.8)

23,328 (14.4)

17,202 (7.8)

13,484 (6.8)

3,718 (16.7)

Other Workers 376,100 (41.1)

312759 (42.7)

63,341 (34.4)

187,629 (27.0)

140,627 (26.4)

47,002 (29.0)

188,471 (85.4)

172,132 (86.7)

16,339 (73.6)

Source: Census of India 2001, District Census Handbook, Part XII A & B, Series-10

100

In the rural areas of the district total workers (main + marginal) are 32.7 per

cent of total population. Among these workers, cultivators constitute 41.8 per cent,

25.0 per cent agricultural labourers, 6.2 per cent household industry workers and 27.0

per cent other workers. The agricultural sector plays a major role in providing

employment to the working force of rural population despite the fact that it is not

commercially viable. Household industries also could not make much progress in

rural areas as reflected in the data and these household industries employ only 6.2

percent workers of the total working force. Therefore surplus working force has to

depend on primary activities. Among cultivators, the percentage of females (28.7 per

cent) is lower than males (45.8 per cent) of the district. The percentage of agricultural

labourers and household industry workers is quite low i.e. only 31.2 per cent in the

district.

In the district, urban areas has recorded highest percentage of other worker

(85.4) followed by household industry workers (6.8 per cent males and 16.7 per cent

female), agricultural labourers (3.8 per cent males and 5.9 per cent females), and

cultivators (2.8 per cent males and 3.8 per cent females).

Table 2.11 and fig. 2.12 presents block-wise distribution of workers in

different categories of economic activity. Out of the total population in each block,

Iglas rank first in the total number of workers (38.6 per cent). Among these workers,

cultivators constitute 38.6 per cent, 28.7 per cent agricultural labourers, 8.6 per cent

household industry workers and 24.1 per cent other workers. While the lowest number

of total workers has been found in Jawan Sikandarpur block. The proportion of

cultivators, agricultural labourers, household industry workers and other workers

differ considerably from one block to another. The proportion of cultivators varies

between 28.3 per cent in Lodha block to 52.7 per cent in Gangiri block. Similarly for

101

N

CultivatorsAgricultural LabourersHousehold Industry WorkersOther Workers

LEGEND

5 0 5 10 15

Km

Aligarh District Block wise Occupational Structure

(2001)

Fig. 2.12

102

Table 2.11 Aligarh District: Block wise Distribution of Workers in different categories of Economic Activity

(2001) S.No

. Blocks Total

Population Total

number of Workers

(main +marginal)

Category of Workers Cultivators

(in per cent)

Agricultural Labourers

(in per cent)

Household Industry Workers (in per cent)

Other Workers (in per cent)

1. Tappal 169,705 37.9 47.4 20.5 4.9 27.3 2. Khair 166,015 35.2 42.5 22.9 9.8 24.8 3. Chandaus 174,333 33.8 45.4 26.4 4.2 24.0 4. Lodha 200,642 30.2 28.3 17.3 6.0 48.3 5. JawanSikan

darpur 211,390 27.7 34.4 24.0 6.3 35.2

6. Atrauli 180,899 31.5 42.5 29.4 5.9 22.2 7. Bijauli 155,285 33.8 49.6 26.9 6.0 17.5 8. Gangiri 227,328 31.0 52.7 22.9 6.1 18.3 9. Dhanipur 175008 31.1 32.5 26.5 5.7 35.2 10. Akrabad 145,040 31.2 41.2 32.4 5.3 21.1 11. Gonda 166,915 35.7 43.9 25.5 6.0 24.6 12. Iglas 155,032 38.6 38.6 28.7 8.6 24.1

Source: Census of India 2001, District Census Handbook, Part XII A & B, Series-10

other workers, the lowest proportion is 17.5 per cent in Bijauli block while 48.3 per

cent is the highest in Lodha block. The percentage of agricultural labourers is highest

in Akrabad (32.4 per cent) block and is followed by Atrauli (29.4 per cent) block. In

other blocks, this proportion is almost similar. Similarly, household industry worker

varies in blocks between 4.2 per cent in Chandaus and 9.8 per cent in Khair.

2.4: CULTURAL SETTING

2.4.1: Land Use

Land use of an area is determined by the nature and general layout of physical

elements. The land use pattern of the district is illustrated in table 2.12 and fig. 2.13

which shows that the net sown area constitute 81.65 per cent of the total reported area

of the district and thus constitutes the most dominant category of land use. It is

followed by land put to non-agricultural uses, which accounts for 10.28 per cent of the

total area. The current and other fallow lands account for 1.85 per cent and 1.45 per

103

Land put to non-agriculturalusesBarren and uncultivated land

Cultivable waste land

Other fallow

Permanent pastures and grazinglandForest/groves, trees, crops

Current fallow

Net sown area

Aligarh District Land Use (2007-2008)

cent respectively. Cultivable waste land accounts for 1.44 per cent and forest/groves,

trees, and crops account for only 0.76 per cent of the total reported area of the district.

Table 2.12 Aligarh District: Land Use (2007-2008)

S. No. Land Use Area (sq. km) Percentage 1. Land put to non-agricultural uses 381.51 10.28 2. Barren and uncultivated land 77.97 2.10 3. Cultivable waste land 53.54 1.44 4. Other fallow 53.92 1.45 5. Permanent pastures and grazing land 17.27 0.47 6. Forest/groves, trees, crops 28.18 0.76 7. Current fallow 68.75 1.85 8. Net sown area 3031.47 81.65

District Total Reported Area 3712.61 100 Source: District Statistical Magazine, 2010.

Fig. 2.13

Table 2.13 shows the block wise land use in Aligarh district. Tappal block

contributes maximum to the net sown area (325.91 sq. km.) followed by Gangiri

(296.43 sq. km.) and Khair (290.55 sq. km.), while Bijauli shares minimum net sown

area (190.16 sq. km.) followed by Lodha block (198.35 sq.km.).

2.4.2: Irrigation

Irrigation is the artificial application of water to the land or soil. It is used to

assist in the growing of agricultural crops, maintenance of landscapes, and

104

Table 2.13 Aligarh District: Block wise Land Use (sq.km.) (2007-2008)

Block Land put to non-

agricultural uses

Barren and uncultivated

land

Cultivable waste land

Other fallow

Permanent pastures and grazing land

Forest/groves, trees, crops

Current fallow

Net sown area

Tappal 35.14 3.60 7.90 3.05 2.07 0.46 3.27 325.91 Chandaus 25.79 6.40 5.61 3.89 1.59 1.37 4.58 283.37 Khair 27.77 3.83 4.78 2.54 1.47 0.54 3.90 290.55 JawanSikanderpur 34.61 16.52 2.15 6.15 1.83 8.75 7.03 232.99

Lodha 23.71 8.91 3.30 14.28 2.31 0.49 11.98 198.35 Dhanipur 29.96 9.20 8.57 5.41 1.20 0.50 8.13 231.23 Gonda 27.95 1.72 1.60 3.28 0.82 0.78 2.43 255.34 Iglas 27.06 1.56 0.52 3.16 1.08 0.93 1.72 223.01 Atrauli 27.15 2.37 1.64 2.46 1.56 3.04 3.46 247.98 Bijauli 41.44 5.42 4.56 0.12 1.48 2.53 7.21 190.16 Gangiri 31.84 4.45 5.06 4.61 1.57 0.77 7.17 296.43 Akrabad 20.79 10.32 2.67 0.89 0.29 7.83 2.34 227.02 Total Rural 353.21 74.30 48.36 49.84 17.27 27.99 63.22 3002.34 Source: District Statistical Magazine, 2010.

105

Canal Public Tubewell

Private Tubewell Ponds

Others

85.91 %

11.66 %

2.31 %

Canal Private Tubewell

40.18 % 59.82

%

Canal Public Tubewell Private Tubewell Ponds Others

11.94 %

85.66 %

2.28 %

Table 2.14 Aligarh District: Area under Different Sources of Irrigation (2008-2009)

Sources Area (sq. km.)

Rural Urban Total Canals 334.74

(11.66) 11.54

(40.18) 346.28 (11.94)

Tubewell

Public

66.25 (2.31)

0.00 (0.00)

66.25 (2.28)

Private 2467.22 (85.91)

17.18 (59.82)

2484.40 (85.66)

Ponds 3.15 (0.11)

0.00 (0.00)

3.15 (0.11)

Others 0.36 (0.01)

0.00 (0.00)

0.36 (0.01)

Total 2871.72 (100)

28.72 (100)

2900.44 (100)

Source: District Statistical Magazine, 2010.

Fig. 2.14

Total

Rural Urban

Aligarh District Areas under Different Sources of Irrigation

(2008-2009)

106

improvement of ill drained soils in dry areas and during periods of inadequate rainfall.

Table 2.14 and fig. 2.14 reveals that canals and tubewells are the main source of

irrigation in the district. In the study area total irrigated area is 2900.44 sq. km. out of

which 2871.72 sq. km. is under rural irrigated area and 28.72 sq. km. is under urban

irrigated area. In all the areas whether it is rural or urban, private tubewell is the main

source of irrigation followed by canal irrigation. Irrigation in urban areas is done

mainly by private tube wells and canals.

2.4.3: Agriculture and Cropping Pattern

Agriculture has occupied an important place in the district. There are three

harvesting seasons in the Aligarh District, namely Rabi, Kharif, and Zaid. Table 2.15

and fig. 2.15 reveals that the highest total gross cropped area in the district has been

found in Gonda block having area under Rabi, Kharif, and Zaid crop as 55.70 per

cent, 40.75 per cent and 3.55 per cent respectively, while lowest gross cropped area

has been found in Iglas block having 64.25 per cent area under Rabi crops, 35.47 per

cent under Kharif crops, and 0.28 per cent under Zaid crops of the total gross cropped

area. Table 2.16 reveals that, wheat is the dominant crop in the district having 221,651

Table 2.15 Aligarh District: Block wise Cropping Pattern (2009-2010)

Blocks Total Gross Cropped Area (in hectares)

Per cent of Total Gross Cropped Area Area under Rabi Crops

Area under Kharif Crops

Area under Zaid Crops

Tappal 49,707 59.86 38.46 1.68 Chandaus 45,409 58.03 39.40 2.57 Khair 51,207 57.20 40.69 2.12 JawanSikanderpur 41,587 51.07 44.72 4.20 Lodha 37,867 61.12 33.86 5.02 Dhanipur 38,559 52.81 41.93 5.25 Gonda 57,812 55.70 40.75 3.55 Iglas 33,813 64.25 35.47 0.28 Atrauli 44,336 51.57 42.63 5.79 Bijauli 33,849 51.65 45.48 2.87 Gangiri 51,607 51.01 45.29 3.70 Akrabad 38,304 53.57 43.67 2.76 Source: Compiled from ‘ICT Based Agricultural Monitoring and Development Initiative’ implemented under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, 2009-2010.

107

Fig. 1.15

Fig. 2.15

hectares of area under its cultivation, followed by Millet having 86,847 hectares of

area under its cultivation. Crop production of wheat and Millet has been recorded as

Table 2.16: Aligarh District: Cropping Pattern (2008-2009)

Crops Area (in hectares) Production (in metric tonnes)

Average Production (quintal/hectare)

Rice 57,871 125464 21.68 Wheat 221,651 750861 33.88 Barley 10,929 37618 34.42 Millet 86,847 178992 20.61 Maize 26,409 67537 25.57 Urad 578 328 5.67

Moong 2,291 771 3.37 Masur 1,075 948 8.82 Gram 59 58 9.83 Pea 277 334 12.06

Arhar 15,730 8790 5.59 Lahi/Sarson 21,944 30664 13.97

Til 35 6 1.71 Groundnut 8 6 7.50 Sunflower 80 142 17.75 Sugarcane 8,769 501657 572.08

Potato 18,845 415570 220.52 Tobacco 1 3 30.00 Cotton 835 183 2.19

Tamarind 3 10 33.33 Source: District Statistical Magazine, Aligarh, 2010.

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70P

er c

ent o

f tot

al G

ross

Cro

pped

Are

a

Blocks

Aligarh District Block Wise Cropping Pattern

(2009-2010)

Area under Rabi Crops Area under Kharif Crops Area under Zaid Crops

108

33.88 quintal and 20.61 quintal per hectare respectively. Among pulses Arhar

occupies largest area i.e. 15,730 hectares with 8,790 metric tonnes of production and

5.59 quintals/hectare of average production. Among oilseeds, lahi/sarson records

largest area of 21,944 hectares accounting 13.97 quintals/hectare of average

production in the district. Sugarcane has been recorded with highest average

production i.e., 572.08 quintal /hectare followed by potato with 220.52 quintal/

hectare. It is attributed to the fact that study area is a dry land area and well irrigated

which gives good production of agricultural products.

2.4.4: Industries

Aligarh District has a tradition of industrial activity from medieval times when

cotton, indigo, glass, and pottery had developed. The district has made sufficient head

way in industrial development. During 1990-91 the numbers of factories registered

under Indian factory act 1948 were 473. Industries registered during 2004-2005,

2005-2006, and 2006-2007 were 192, 216, and 232 employing 8,516, 10,019, and

Table 2.17 Aligarh District: Number of Units and Employed persons in Registered Industries, Small Scale Industries, and Khadi Industries

(2010-2011) S.No. Block Registered Industries Small Scale

Industries Khadi Industries

No. of Units

Employed Persons

No. of Units

Employed Persons

No. of Units

Employed Persons

1. Tappal 0 0 1 2 6 6 2. Chandaus 0 0 33 155 13 13 3. Khair 4 95 44 204 7 7 4. JawanSikendarpur 6 362 12 54 2 2 5. Lodha 3 65 17 84 3 3 6. Dhanipur 10 171 10 46 13 13 7. Gonda 3 270 9 42 3 3 8. Iglas 6 916 36 179 6 6 9. Atrauli 2 270 18 85 10 10 10. Bijauli 0 0 0 0 3 3 11. Gangiri 0 0 3 15 7 7 12. Akrabad 1 145 34 159 4 4

Total Rural 35 2294 217 1025 77 77 Total Urban 191 10192 348 1664 0 0 Total District 226 12486 565 2689 77 77

Source: District Khadi Village Industry Office, Aligarh.

109

9,666 average number persons respectively. The industrial units include a large

printing establishment, unit engaged in manufacturing of scales, knives, locks,

furniture, leather goods, scissors etc. Aligarh district is specially known for the

production of locks of brass and iron and scissors. There are numerous lock factories

in city. Handloom, carpet and glass industry are also found in the district. The above

table (2.17) shows the number of units and employed persons in registered industries,

small scale industries, and khadi industries during 2010-2011 in Aligarh District.

Total numbers of registered industries in the district are 226 employing 12,486

persons in the district. Out of this, 35 units are present in rural area and 191 in urban

area employing 2,294 persons and 10,192 persons respectively. Block-wise

distribution of registered industries reveals that highest number of units has been

found in Dhanipur (10 units) while no industries has been found in Tappal, Chandaus,

Bijauli and Gangiri. Similarly small scale industries out number in urban areas (348

units) than in rural areas (217 units). Highest number of small scale industries has

been found in Khair block (44 units) followed by Iglas block (36 units). There are 77

units of khadi industries in the district and all these units are present in the rural area

employing 77 persons. Among blocks, highest number of khadi industry has been

found in Chandaus (13), and Dhanipur (13), while lowest number has been found in

Jawan Sikendarpur (2).

2.4.5: Transportation and Communication

Transportation is of prime importance for the socio-economic development of

a region. It plays an important role in creating contact between city or market and its

tributary area and helps in the movement of goods and men efficiently. The basic

structure of transport system of the region consists of network of roads and railways.

Aligarh district is well connected by railways as well as road (fig. 2.16). The focal

110

point of the district is Aligarh city from where transportation arteries radiate to every

corner of the district. The famous Grand Trunk Road passes through the district of

Aligarh.

The total length of roads, which includes roads under government departments

and local bodies is 2023 kms and no national highway passes through the district

whereas state highways account for 164 kms and main district roads for 96 kms.

Table 2.18 Aligarh District: Block wise Transport and Communication services (2009-2010)

Blocks Length of metalled road (in kms.)

Bus stop Railway station

Post office

Total By P.W.D. Tappal 155 140 10 0 23 Chandaus 199 176 10 1 36 Khair 182 175 11 0 34 JawanSikanderpur 209 197 10 4 27 Lodha 232 230 14 2 28 Dhanipur 228 225 8 2 26 Gonda 181 180 14 0 26 Iglas 196 190 23 0 19 Atrauli 310 292 23 1 28 Bijauli 161 160 11 0 22 Gangiri 227 220 18 0 33 Akrabad 222 221 17 0 24 Total (Rural) 2502 2406 169 10 326 Total (Urban) 549 46 14 1 46 Total District 3051 2452 183 11 372 Source: District Statistical Magazine, 2010.

Other district and rural roads run through the length of 1293 kms. Average length of

roads for every one lakh of population stand for 76.8 kms. Table 2.18 reveals that the

district has 3051 km. of metalled road out of which 2502 km. is in rural area and 549

km. in urban area. Maximum length of metalled road has been found in Atrauli block

(310 km.), followed by Lodha, Dhanipur, Gangiri, and Jawan Sikanderpur having 232

km, 228 km., 227 km., and 209 km. respectively. Total number of bus stops in the

district is 183 out of which 169 is in rural areas of the district.

The railway tract in the district runs to the total length of 83 kms. having 11

railway stations including halts. Tappal, Khair, Gonda, Iglas, Bijauli, Gangiri, and

111

N

Tehsil Boundary

District Boundary

Block Boundary

# Block Headquarer

Roads

Railway Line

INDEX

Km

15105 0 5

#

#

#

#

#

#

#

#

#

#

#

#

Dhanipur

Akrabad

Gangiri

Bijauli

Atrauli

Gonda

Iglas

Jawan Sikandarpur

Lodha

Chandaus

Khair

Tappal

MA T

H

U

R

A

H

A

T

HR

A

S

BA

D A

U

N

BU

L

AN

D SH

A

RH

Khair Road

Gonda RoadIg

las R

oad

Hat

hra

s R

oad

To K

anpur

To Kanpur

Ramgh

at Roa

d

To Bar

ielly

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har R

oad

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Delhi

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RYA

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A

Aligarh District Transport Network

Fig. 2.16

112

Akrabad do not have railway stations. Table 2.18 further reveals the block wise

distribution of post office in the district, where it has been observed that Chandaus has

highest number of post office (36) followed by Khair (34), and Gangiri (33), while

Iglas has lowest number (19) of post office.

2.4.6 Rural Markets

Rural markets are the widespread exchange system which plays a dynamic

role in the socio-economic development of any region. Markets in rural areas help in

improving agricultural marketing. An efficient marketing system can provide better

prices to producers and improve the availability of competitively priced produce to

consumers. They are the focal point of a rural centre and provide an important place

where people can meet. Further these rural centres become rural growth centres or

rural service centres with the introduction of improved facilities and amenities. Table

2.19 shows that there are 92 rural markets in the district. The highest numbers of rural

markets has been found in Gangiri block (19) and the lowest numbers of rural markets

(2) has been found in Dhanipur block (fig. 2.17).

Table 2.19 Aligarh District: Block Wise Distribution of Rural Markets (2011)

S.No. Blocks Rural Markets 1. Tappal 6 2. Chandaus 4 3. Khair 4 4. Jawan 8 5. Lodha 9 6. Dhanipur 2 7. Gonda 4 8. Iglas 4 9. Atrauli 9 10. Gangiri 19 11. Akrabad 10 12. Bijauli 13

Source: District Statistical Magazine (2011)

It has been observed that the study area is physico-culturally and socio-

economically highly diversified leading to spatial variation of living standard and life

style of inhabitants.

113

N

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Aligarh District Spatial Distribution of Rural Markets

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Fig. 2.17