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 physicocultural 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
72
Location of Aligarh District
77045’
78000’
78015’
78030’
N
Aligarh District
Administrative Divisions
28015’
28015’
(2001)
A
L
U
N
B
S
D
H
A
H
R
B
A
H
A
#
Chandaus
#
R
Jawan
#
Sikandarpur
#
S
Tappal
28000’ Y
A
#
#
27045’
S
#
#
S
Dhanipur
#
Gonda
#
Akrabad
S
Iglas
District Boundary
Tehsil Boundary
Block Boundary
#
#
R
INDEX
District Headquarter
Tehsil Headquarters
Block Headquarters
A
77045’
N
28000’
Gangiri
Lodha
H
U
A
#
T
M
#
S
Bijauli
#
#
S
A
D
U
#
S#
Khair
N
A
S
#
Atrauli
#
S
#
A
H
T
R
A
5
H
0
5
10
Km
78000’
78015’
Source: Census of India 2001, Uttar Pradesh, Administrative Atlas, Volume I.
Fig. 2.1
73
27045’
78030’
15
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)
Tehsil
1.Atrauli
2. Ghabhana
3. Khair
4. Koil
5.Iglas
Total
Blocks
1.Atrauli
2. Gangiri
3. Bijauli
4. JawanSikanderpur
5. Chandaus
6. Khair
7. Tappal
8. Dhanipur
9. Lodha
10. Akrabad
11. Iglas
12. Gonda
Inhabited
Villages
110
99
85
108
92
96
87
98
133
86
103
83
1,180
Number of Villages
Uninhabited
Villages
3
2
7
1
2
0
5
0
7
3
0
0
30
Source: Census of India 2001, District Census Handbook, Part XII A & B, Series-10
74
Total
113
111
92
109
94
96
92
98
140
89
103
83
1,210
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.
75
Aligarh District
N
Physiographic Regions
INDEX
5
0
5
10
15
Yamuna Khadar
Western Uplands
Central Lowlands
Eastern Upland
Ganga Khadar
20
Km
Source: Survey of India Topographical Sheet Number 53H, 53L, 54E, 54I
Fig. 2.2
76
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.
77
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.
78
N
Aligarh District
Drainage System
G
A
N
GA
R
Y
A
M
U
NA
R
I
V
E
R
K
A
R
W
A
N
R
I
V
E
R
5
0
5
10
15
S
E
N
G
A
R
A
L
I
G
A
R
H
DRAIN
K
A
L
I
N
A
R
I
V
E
R
N
E
DI
E
M
Rivers
Drains
20
km
Source: Survey of India Topographical Sheet Number 53 H, 53 L, 54 E, 54 I
Fig. 2.3
79
I
V
E
R
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
80
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.
81
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.
82
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
83
Aligarh District
N
Soil Regions
8
4
0
8
Ganga Khadar Soil
Loam and Sandy Loam of Eastern Uplands
Grity Soil of Kali Khadar
Loamy Soil of Central Alluvial Trough
Sand or Sandy Loam Upland of Western
Stiff Loamy Soil
Gravelly Loam of Yamuna Khadar
16
Km
Source: Gazetteers and Settlement Reports
Fig. 2.4
84
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
85
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
86
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
87
Table 2.2 Aligarh District: Growth Rate of Population
(1901-2011)
Year
1901
1911
1921
1931
1941
1951
1961
1971
1981
1991
2001
2011
Population
Total
Absolute
Decennial
869,799
844,344
769,060
848,737
994,253
1,118,017
1,278,945
1,541,536
1,884,955
2,449,597
2,992,286
3,673,849
-25,455
-75,284
79,677
145,516
123,764
160,928
262,591
343,419
564,642
542,689
681,563
Decennial
Variation
(per cent)
-2.9
-8.9
10.4
17.1
12.4
14.4
20.5
22.3
30.0
22.2
22.8
Population
Rural
Absolute
Decennial
725,971
721,200
650,225
716,341
829,992
917,170
1,075,989
1,268,242
1,443,236
1,810,294
2,127,592
2,457,268
-4,771
-70,975
66,116
113,651
87,178
158,819
192,253
174,994
367,058
317,298
32,9676
Decennial
Variation
(per cent)
-0.7
-9.8
10.2
15.9
10.5
17.3
17.9
13.8
25.4
17.5
15.5
Source: Census of India 2001, District Census Handbook, Part XII A& B, Series-10and provisional
data of 2011.
Aligarh District
Growth of Population
(1901-2011)
Growth Rate (%)
35
30
25
20
15
10
Total
5
Rural
0
-5
-10
-15
Decadal Year
Fig. 2.5
88
Table 2.3 Aligarh District: Block Wise Growth of Population
(1991-2001)
Block
Rural Population
1991
2001
Tappal
155646
Chandaus
Urban Population
1991
2001
169705
Per
cent
change
9.03
13276
148406
174333
17.47
Khair
144360
166015
Jawan
Sikanderpur
176187
Lodha
Total Population
1991
2001
16973
Per
cent
change
27.85
168922
186678
Per
cent
change
10.51
-
-
-
148406
174333
17.47
15.00
21770
27667
27.09
166130
193682
16.58
211390
19.98
16095
13752
-14.56
192282
225142
17.09
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)
Block
Population
Tappal
Rural
169705
Per cent
7.98
Urban
16973
Per cent
1.96
Total
186678
Per cent
6.24
Chandaus
174333
8.19
-
-
174333
5.83
Khair
JawanSikanderpur
166015
211390
7.80
9.94
27667
13752
3.20
1.59
193682
225142
6.47
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
Gangiri
180899
227328
8.50
10.68
43744
20831
5.06
2.41
224643
248159
7.51
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
Source: Computed from District Statistical Magazine, 2005
89
Aligarh District
N
Block wise Growth of Population
(1991-2001)
20
30
20
10
0
10
30
40
0
20
20
Chandaus
20
Atrauli
0
10
0
-20
0
Bijauli
Jawan
Tappal
30
60
20
40
10
0
40
40
20
20
20
0
Khair
0
Lodha
40
Gangiri
0
Dhanipur
20
40
0
20
Gonda
0
Akrabad
50
0
Iglas
5
0
5
10
Index
Per cent change in Rural Population
15
Per cent change in Urban Population
KM
Per cent change in Total Population
90 Fig. 2.6
Aligarh District
N
Block wise Distribution of Population
(2001)
10
10
10
5
0
5
Chandaus
20
5
10
0
10
Atrauli
Jawan
0
Tappal
5
0
0
Bijauli
10
20
5
0
Khair
10
100
0
Gangiri
5
50
0
0
Dhanipur
Lodha
10
10
5
0
Akrabad
0
Gonda
10
5
Index
0
Iglas
5
0
5
10
Rural Population (in %)
15
Urban Population (in %)
Total Population (in %)
KM
91
Fig. 2.7
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
Tappal
Chandaus
Khair
JawanSikanderpur
Lodha
Dhanipur
Gonda
Iglas
Atrauli
Bijauli
Gangiri
Akrabad
Total
Area (in sq. km)
413.25
318.93
317.90
297.88
293.15
279.41
268.83
253.50
272.79
223.19
350.48
289.90
3579.20
Population
169705
174333
166015
211390
200642
175008
166915
155032
180899
155285
227328
145040
2127592
Density
410
546
522
709
684
626
620
611
663
695
648
500
594
Source: Computed from Census of India 2001, District Census Handbook, Part XII A & B, Series-10
92
N
Aligarh District
Block-wise Density of Rural Population
2001
INDEX No. of persons/sq.km
High
5
0
5
10
Medium
15
Low
KM
Fig. 2.8
93
> 648
648-558
< 558
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 Population by Sex and Sex
Ratio
(2001)
Area
Total
Rural
Urban
Persons
2992286
2127592
864694
Population
Males
1607402
1146456
460946
Source: Census of India, 2001.
94
Sex Ratio
Females
1384884
981136
403748
862
856
876
N
Aligarh District
Block-wise Distribution of Sex Ratio
2001
INDEX per 1000 males
High
5
0
5
10
Medium
15
Low
KM
Fig. 2.9
95
> 862
862-850
< 850
Table 2.7 Aligarh District: Block Wise Distribution of Sex Ratio
(2001)
Blocks
Akrabad
Gangiri
Bijauli
Atrauli
JawanSikanderpur
Dhanipur
Lodha
Chandaus
Khair
Tappal
Gonda
Iglas
Total District (Rural)
S. No.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11
12.
Sex Ratio
857
854
833
861
872
863
849
857
867
866
841
846
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
S.
No.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
Block
Tappal
Chandaus
Khair
Jawan
Sikanderpur
Lodha
Dhanipur
Gonda
Iglas
Atrauli
Bijauli
Gangiri
Akrabad
Total Rural
Total Urban
Total District
(2001)
Literate Persons
Male
Female
Total
56179
25352
81531
59135
28766
87901
55183
25158
80341
68044
33044
101088
Literacy Percentage
Male
Female
Total
76.50
39.97
59.57
77.52
44.36
62.28
77.50
41.00
60.60
74.88
42.03
59.64
64976
53694
58094
52194
57280
40094
57245
45399
667517
270975
938492
74.58
70.70
70.61
76.79
72.95
58.36
57.88
72.31
72.19
70.55
71.71
32063
25760
24167
22750
24483
14144
21714
21090
298491
183621
482112
97039
79454
82261
74944
81763
54238
78959
66489
966008
454596
1420604
43.62
39.70
39.79
40.03
36.34
25.03
29.05
39.60
38.04
54.68
43.03
Source: Census of India 2001, District Census Handbook, Part XII A & B, Series-10
96
60.41
56.42
61.53
60.05
56.05
43.31
43.32
57.30
56.51
63.15
58.48
N
Aligarh District
Block-wise Literacy
2001
INDEX In per cent
High
5
0
5
10
Medium
15
Low
KM
Fig. 2.10
97
> 59.98
59.98-53.44
< 53.44
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
Year
1971
1981
1991
2001
2011*
Male (%)
35.10
44.00
59.91
71.71
80.24
(1971-2011)
Female (%)
12.60
16.20
26.81
43.03
57.48
Total (%)
24.90
31.30
44.87
58.48
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
Aligarh District
Literacy Rate
(1971-2011)
90
80
Percentage
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
1971
1981
1991
2001
Year
Male
Female
Fig. 2.11
98
Total
2011
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
Persons
Male
Female
Rural
Persons
Male
Female
Urban
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
99
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
100
Aligarh District
N
Block wise Occupational Structure
(2001)
LEGEND
Cultivators
Agricultural Labourers
Household Industry Workers
Other Workers
5
0
5
Km
101
Fig. 2.12
10
15
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)
Cultivators
(in per
cent)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Category of Workers
Agricultural Household
Labourers
Industry
(in per cent)
Workers
(in per
cent)
20.5
4.9
22.9
9.8
26.4
4.2
17.3
6.0
24.0
6.3
Tappal
169,705
37.9
47.4
Khair
166,015
35.2
42.5
Chandaus
174,333
33.8
45.4
Lodha
200,642
30.2
28.3
JawanSikan
211,390
27.7
34.4
darpur
6.
Atrauli
180,899
31.5
42.5
29.4
7.
Bijauli
155,285
33.8
49.6
26.9
8.
Gangiri
227,328
31.0
52.7
22.9
9.
Dhanipur
175008
31.1
32.5
26.5
10.
Akrabad
145,040
31.2
41.2
32.4
11.
Gonda
166,915
35.7
43.9
25.5
12.
Iglas
155,032
38.6
38.6
28.7
Source: Census of India 2001, District Census Handbook, Part XII A & B, Series-10
5.9
6.0
6.1
5.7
5.3
6.0
8.6
Other
Workers
(in per
cent)
27.3
24.8
24.0
48.3
35.2
22.2
17.5
18.3
35.2
21.1
24.6
24.1
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
102
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
1.
Land put to non-agricultural uses
2.
Barren and uncultivated land
3.
Cultivable waste land
4.
Other fallow
5.
Permanent pastures and grazing land
6.
Forest/groves, trees, crops
7.
Current fallow
8.
Net sown area
District Total Reported Area
Source: District Statistical Magazine, 2010.
Area (sq. km)
381.51
77.97
53.54
53.92
17.27
28.18
68.75
3031.47
3712.61
Percentage
10.28
2.10
1.44
1.45
0.47
0.76
1.85
81.65
100
Aligarh District
Land Use
(2007-2008)
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
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
103
Table 2.13 Aligarh District: Block wise Land Use (sq.km.)
(2007-2008)
Block
Tappal
Chandaus
Khair
JawanSikanderpur
Lodha
Dhanipur
Gonda
Iglas
Atrauli
Bijauli
Gangiri
Akrabad
Total Rural
Land put to
nonagricultural
uses
35.14
25.79
27.77
34.61
Barren and
uncultivated
land
Cultivable
waste land
Other
fallow
Permanent
pastures and
grazing land
Forest/groves,
trees, crops
Current
fallow
Net sown
area
3.60
6.40
3.83
16.52
7.90
5.61
4.78
2.15
3.05
3.89
2.54
6.15
2.07
1.59
1.47
1.83
0.46
1.37
0.54
8.75
3.27
4.58
3.90
7.03
325.91
283.37
290.55
232.99
23.71
29.96
27.95
27.06
27.15
41.44
31.84
20.79
353.21
8.91
9.20
1.72
1.56
2.37
5.42
4.45
10.32
74.30
3.30
8.57
1.60
0.52
1.64
4.56
5.06
2.67
48.36
14.28
5.41
3.28
3.16
2.46
0.12
4.61
0.89
49.84
2.31
1.20
0.82
1.08
1.56
1.48
1.57
0.29
17.27
0.49
0.50
0.78
0.93
3.04
2.53
0.77
7.83
27.99
11.98
8.13
2.43
1.72
3.46
7.21
7.17
2.34
63.22
198.35
231.23
255.34
223.01
247.98
190.16
296.43
227.02
3002.34
Source: District Statistical Magazine, 2010.
104
Table 2.14 Aligarh District: Area under Different Sources of Irrigation
(2008-2009)
Sources
Area (sq. km.)
Rural
334.74
(11.66)
66.25
(2.31)
2467.22
(85.91)
3.15
(0.11)
0.36
(0.01)
2871.72
(100)
Canals
Public
Tubewell
Private
Ponds
Others
Total
Urban
11.54
(40.18)
0.00
(0.00)
17.18
(59.82)
0.00
(0.00)
0.00
(0.00)
28.72
(100)
Total
346.28
(11.94)
66.25
(2.28)
2484.40
(85.66)
3.15
(0.11)
0.36
(0.01)
2900.44
(100)
Source: District Statistical Magazine, 2010.
Aligarh District
Areas under Different Sources of Irrigation
(2008-2009)
Rural
Urban
11.66 %
2.31 %
59.82
%
85.91 %
Canal
40.18
%
Public Tubewell
Private Tubewell Ponds
Canal
Others
Private Tubewell
Total
11.94 %
2.28 %
85.66 %
Canal
Public Tubewell
Private Tubewell
Fig. 2.14
105
Ponds
Others
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
Blocks
Tappal
Chandaus
Khair
JawanSikanderpur
Lodha
Dhanipur
Gonda
Iglas
Atrauli
Bijauli
Gangiri
Akrabad
Total Gross
Cropped Area
(in hectares)
49,707
45,409
51,207
41,587
37,867
38,559
57,812
33,813
44,336
33,849
51,607
38,304
(2009-2010)
Per cent of Total Gross Cropped Area
Area under
Area under
Area under
Rabi Crops
Kharif Crops
Zaid Crops
59.86
38.46
1.68
58.03
39.40
2.57
57.20
40.69
2.12
51.07
44.72
4.20
61.12
33.86
5.02
52.81
41.93
5.25
55.70
40.75
3.55
64.25
35.47
0.28
51.57
42.63
5.79
51.65
45.48
2.87
51.01
45.29
3.70
53.57
43.67
2.76
Source: Compiled from ‘ICT Based Agricultural Monitoring and Development Initiative’ implemented
under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, 2009-2010.
106
Per cent of total Gross Cropped Area
Aligarh District
Block Wise Cropping Pattern
(2009-2010)
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Blocks
Fig.Area
1.15under Rabi Crops
Area under Kharif Crops
Area under Zaid Crops
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
Crops
Rice
Wheat
Barley
Millet
Maize
Urad
Moong
Masur
Gram
Pea
Arhar
Lahi/Sarson
Til
Groundnut
Sunflower
Sugarcane
Potato
Tobacco
Cotton
Tamarind
(2008-2009)
Area (in hectares)
Production (in
metric tonnes)
57,871
125464
221,651
750861
10,929
37618
86,847
178992
26,409
67537
578
328
2,291
771
1,075
948
59
58
277
334
15,730
8790
21,944
30664
35
6
8
6
80
142
8,769
501657
18,845
415570
1
3
835
183
3
10
Source: District Statistical Magazine, Aligarh, 2010.
107
Average Production
(quintal/hectare)
21.68
33.88
34.42
20.61
25.57
5.67
3.37
8.82
9.83
12.06
5.59
13.97
1.71
7.50
17.75
572.08
220.52
30.00
2.19
33.33
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
No. of
Units
Employed
Persons
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
Small Scale
Industries
No. of
Employed
Units
Persons
Tappal
0
0
1
Chandaus
0
0
33
Khair
4
95
44
JawanSikendarpur
6
362
12
Lodha
3
65
17
Dhanipur
10
171
10
Gonda
3
270
9
Iglas
6
916
36
Atrauli
2
270
18
Bijauli
0
0
0
Gangiri
0
0
3
Akrabad
1
145
34
Total Rural
35
2294
217
Total Urban
191
10192
348
Total District
226
12486
565
Source: District Khadi Village Industry Office, Aligarh.
108
2
155
204
54
84
46
42
179
85
0
15
159
1025
1664
2689
Khadi Industries
No. of
Units
Employed
Persons
6
13
7
2
3
13
3
6
10
3
7
4
77
0
77
6
13
7
2
3
13
3
6
10
3
7
4
77
0
77
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
109
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
Tappal
Chandaus
Khair
JawanSikanderpur
Lodha
Dhanipur
Gonda
Iglas
Atrauli
Bijauli
Gangiri
Akrabad
Total (Rural)
Total (Urban)
Total District
Length of metalled road
(in kms.)
Total
By P.W.D.
155
140
199
176
182
175
209
197
232
230
228
225
181
180
196
190
310
292
161
160
227
220
222
221
2502
2406
549
46
3051
2452
Bus stop
10
10
11
10
14
8
14
23
23
11
18
17
169
14
183
Railway
station
0
1
0
4
2
2
0
0
1
0
0
0
10
1
11
Post office
23
36
34
27
28
26
26
19
28
22
33
24
326
46
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
110
Aligarh District
R
Ba
rie
lly
oad
Chandaus
a
gh
m
Ra
B
A
U
#
N
Bijauli
Khair
N
D A
Atrauli
Jawan
#
Sikandarpur
Tappal
Y
A
H
d
oa
R
t
#
#
R
A
i
Delh
d
oa
rR
ai
Kh
A
S
D
H
To
N
B
#
#
A
A
Gangiri
T
M
#
#
H
Lodha
Dhanipur
#
U
Hathras Road
T
Iglas
5
0
5
10
15
S
R
ur
np
Ka
H
#
Akrabad
To
A
#
ur
T o Kanp
ad #
a Ro
d
n
GoR
Gonda
I gl
as
Ro
ad
H
From
lhi
De
A
An
ups
hah
ar R
om
Fr
Transport Network
L
U
N
INDEX
Railway Line
A
Roads
A
#
Block Headquarer
Block Boundary
H
District Boundary
Tehsil Boundary
Km
Fig. 2.16
111
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
S.No.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
(2011)
Blocks
Tappal
Chandaus
Khair
Jawan
Lodha
Dhanipur
Gonda
Iglas
Atrauli
Gangiri
Akrabad
Bijauli
Rural Markets
6
4
4
8
9
2
4
4
9
19
10
13
Source: District Statistical Magazine (2011)
It has been observed that the study area is physico-culturally and socioeconomically highly diversified leading to spatial variation of living standard and life
style of inhabitants.
112
Aligarh District
N
Spatial Distribution of Rural Markets
(2011)
#
#
#
#
#
#
##
# #
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
##
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
Index
#
0
5
10
15
#
KM
Fig. 2.17
113
#
#
#
5
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
##
#
#
#
#
Rural Markets
#