A8 Population and Settlement Geography

Day 5
B7 Settlements

SYLLABUS:

A8- Population and Settlement Geography: B7- Settlements in India :

▪ Growth and distribution of world ▪ Types, patterns and morphology of rural
population; settlements;
▪ Demographic attributes; ▪ Urban developments;
▪ Causes and consequences of migration; ▪ Morphology of Indian cities;
▪ Concepts of over-under-and optimum ▪ Functional classification of Indian cities;
population; ▪ Conurbations and metropolitan regions;
▪ Population theories, world population ▪ Urban sprawl;
problems and policies, Social well-being ▪ Slums and associated problems;
and quality of life; ▪ Town planning;
▪ Population as social capital. ▪ Problems of urbanisation and remedies.
▪ Types and patterns of rural settlements;
▪ Environmental issues in rural settlements;
▪ Hierarchy of urban settlements;
▪ Urban morphology;
▪ Concept of primate city and rank-size rule;
▪ Functional classification of towns;
▪ Sphere of urban influence;
▪ Rural-urban fringe;
▪ Satellite towns;
▪ Problems and remedies of urbanization;
▪ Sustainable development of cities.

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS:

A8 Population and Settlement Geography:

2023 What do you understand by Population as social capital? 8
2023 What are the main characteristics of the rural-urban fringe? 10
2019 Write critical notes on Rural-urban umland 6
Write the salient features of the distribution of population in the world and also assess
2019
the future trend of growth of population. 15
B7 Settlements (of India):
2023 What are the main causes of urban sprawl in India? 8
2022 Interpret the factors of large population sized village settlements in north Indian plain 14
Discuss the genesis of slums and shanty habitations and propose the solution for
2022
sustainable urban settlement. 14
2022 Rural-Urban Fringe is ecologically the most fragile region. Discuss in Indian Perspective 14
Discuss the situation, location and transport development of New Delhi as a
2019
metropolitan city. 15
2014 Write critical notes on a.Rank-size Rule 6
2014 Give an account of the problems of urbanisation in India. 15
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DAY 5 PRACTICE QUESTIONS:

1. Define the concepts of overpopulation, underpopulation, and optimum population. How do

these concepts influence population policies and interventions?

2. Evaluate the concept of sustainable development in cities. How can urbanization be

managed to ensure environmental, social, and economic sustainability?

3. Write critical notes on (a) Conurbations (b) Satellite towns (c) Sphere of urban influence
(d) distance decay principle

4. Discuss the functional classification of Indian towns in urban geography. How do different
types of urban centers contribute to the overall urban hierarchy?

5. Citing suitable examples from India, explain the role of site and other physical factors in
determining the types and patterns of rural settlements.
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1. Define the concepts of overpopulation, underpopulation, and optimum population. How do

these concepts influence population policies and interventions?

Overpopulation, underpopulation, and optimum population are concepts used to describe the
relationship between population size and available resources or carrying capacity. Here are their
definitions and implications:

Overpopulation:
Overpopulation occurs when the number of people in a given area exceeds the carrying capacity of the
environment, leading to strain on resources such as food, water, and living space. This can result in
environmental degradation, resource depletion, and socio-economic challenges such as poverty,
unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure. Overpopulation is often associated with high population
density and rapid population growth rates. Population policies and interventions aimed at addressing
overpopulation may include family planning programs, education on reproductive health, incentives for
smaller families, and efforts to improve access to contraception.

Underpopulation:
Underpopulation refers to a situation where the population size is lower than the carrying capacity of the
environment, resulting in underutilization of resources and potential socio-economic stagnation.
Underpopulation can lead to challenges such as labor shortages, declining economic growth, and
inadequate demand for goods and services. It may also result in aging populations and demographic
imbalances, with implications for healthcare, pensions, and social welfare systems. Policies to address
underpopulation may include incentives for population growth, immigration programs, and initiatives to
promote fertility rates and family formation.

Optimum Population:
Optimum population represents an ideal balance between population size and available resources,
where the population is in harmony with the environment and can sustainably meet its needs without
exceeding ecological limits. Achieving an optimum population involves balancing demographic factors
such as fertility, mortality, and migration to ensure a stable and sustainable population size. Optimum
population policies focus on promoting sustainable development, improving quality of life, and preserving
environmental integrity. These policies often emphasize investments in education, healthcare, economic
development, and environmental conservation to achieve long-term population stability and well-being.

In summary, overpopulation, underpopulation, and optimum population concepts influence population

policies and interventions by guiding efforts to address population-related challenges, promote
sustainable development, and ensure the well-being of individuals and societies. Policies and
interventions aimed at achieving these goals may vary depending on the specific demographic context,
socio-economic conditions, and environmental considerations of each region or country.

2. Evaluate the concept of sustainable development in cities. How can urbanization be managed
to ensure environmental, social, and economic sustainability?

Sustainable development in cities refers to the balance between economic growth, social equity, and
environmental protection to ensure the well-being of current and future generations. Managing
urbanization to achieve sustainability requires integrated planning, innovative solutions, and active
participation from various stakeholders. Here's an evaluation of this concept along with examples from
India:

1. Environmental Sustainability:
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India's Green Building Council promotes sustainable construction practices, such as energy-
efficient buildings and renewable energy integration, to reduce environmental impact.
Chennai's restoration of water bodies like the Buckingham Canal and Adyar River not only
enhances water resources but also mitigates flood risk and improves biodiversity.

2. Social Equity:

The Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) aims to provide basic services
and housing for urban poor, enhancing their quality of life and reducing inequalities.
Pune's "Janwani" initiative engages citizens in urban planning decisions, ensuring inclusivity and
empowering marginalized communities.

3. Economic Sustainability:

Ahmedabad's Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) enhances mobility, reduces congestion, and
boosts economic productivity while promoting sustainable transport options.
Bengaluru's "Namma Metro" project not only addresses transportation needs but also stimulates
economic growth by improving connectivity and accessibility to commercial areas.

4. Integrated Planning:

The Smart Cities Mission emphasizes holistic planning approaches, leveraging technology and
data-driven solutions to improve urban services, infrastructure, and governance.
Indore's "Clean and Green City" initiative integrates waste management, sanitation, and green
spaces development to create a healthier and more livable urban environment.

5. Community Participation:

The Bhuj Earthquake Rehabilitation Project involved affected communities in the reconstruction
process, fostering ownership, resilience, and social cohesion.
Kerala's "People's Plan Campaign" empowers local communities through decentralized planning,
ensuring their participation in decision-making and implementation processes.

In conclusion, sustainable development in cities requires a multifaceted approach that addresses

environmental, social, and economic dimensions. Indian cities have implemented various initiatives and
projects to promote sustainability, demonstrating the importance of integrated planning, community
engagement, and innovation in managing urbanization for the benefit of all stakeholders.

3. Write critical notes on (a) Conurbations (b) Satellite towns (c) Sphere of urban influence (d)
distance decay principle

(a) Conurbations

The concept of Conurbation in Geography has been given by Patrick Geddes. Conurbations refer to
extensive urban areas formed by the merging of multiple cities, towns, and suburbs into a continuous and
densely populated metropolitan region. Here are critical notes on conurbations:

1. Urban Sprawl: Conurbations often experience rapid and uncontrolled urban sprawl, leading to
the expansion of built-up areas into surrounding rural lands. This can result in inefficient land use,
loss of agricultural land, and increased pressure on natural habitats and ecosystems.
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2. Infrastructure Challenges: Managing the infrastructure of conurbations, including

transportation networks, utilities, and public services, poses significant challenges due to the
scale and complexity of these urban agglomerations. Issues such as traffic congestion,
inadequate public transport, and insufficient water and sanitation facilities can arise, affecting the
quality of life for residents.

3. Social Inequities: Conurbations may exacerbate socio-economic disparities, with affluent areas
coexisting alongside marginalized communities characterized by poverty, inadequate housing,
and limited access to basic services. This spatial segregation can deepen social inequalities and
contribute to social tensions and exclusion.

4. Environmental Degradation: The concentration of population and economic activities in

conurbations can lead to environmental degradation, including air and water pollution, habitat
destruction, and depletion of natural resources. The high demand for energy and resources in
these urban areas contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change impacts.

5. Governance and Coordination: Effective governance and coordination among multiple

municipalities and administrative bodies within conurbations are essential for addressing
common challenges and promoting sustainable development. However, governance structures
may be fragmented, leading to coordination issues, conflicting policies, and inadequate
responses to urban issues.

6. Economic Opportunities: Despite the challenges, conurbations also offer economic

opportunities, including agglomeration economies, innovation clusters, and access to a diverse
labor market. Strategic planning and investment in infrastructure, education, and
entrepreneurship can capitalize on these opportunities and drive economic growth and
competitiveness.

In conclusion, conurbations represent complex urban environments characterized by opportunities and

challenges. Addressing the critical issues associated with conurbations requires integrated and
sustainable urban planning approaches that prioritize environmental stewardship, social equity, and
economic prosperity.
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Urban Transport Corridors and Emerging Conurbations of India. Source: Author based on study by
Centre for Policy Research (2001), New Delhi.

(b) Satellite towns

Satellite towns are urban settlements that are located in close proximity to larger cities and serve as
supplementary residential, commercial, or industrial centers.

1. Urban Sprawl Mitigation: Satellite towns are often developed to alleviate urban sprawl and
congestion in larger cities by providing alternative locations for residential and economic activities.
For example, Navi Mumbai serves as a satellite town to Mumbai, relieving pressure on housing
and infrastructure in the main city.

2. Infrastructure Development: Satellite towns offer opportunities for planned infrastructure

development, including transportation networks, utilities, and social amenities. However,
inadequate infrastructure investment and planning can lead to inefficiencies and service
deficiencies. For instance, Greater Noida and Ghaziabad, satellite towns of Delhi, have faced
challenges in providing adequate water, sewage, and transportation infrastructure.

3. Economic Diversification: Satellite towns can contribute to economic diversification by

attracting businesses and industries away from congested urban centers. For example, Gurgaon,
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a satellite town of Delhi, has emerged as a major corporate hub with numerous multinational
companies and commercial developments.

4. Commuting Patterns: Satellite towns often rely on commuting to the main city for employment
opportunities, resulting in increased traffic congestion and environmental pollution. Efficient
transportation systems, such as metro rail networks and dedicated bus lanes, are crucial for
managing commuting patterns. For instance, Faridabad, a satellite town of Delhi, has witnessed
significant traffic congestion due to inadequate transportation infrastructure.

5. Social Integration: Satellite towns should prioritize social integration and inclusivity to ensure
that residents have access to essential services, education, healthcare, and recreational facilities.
However, inadequate planning and governance can lead to socio-economic disparities and
exclusion. For example, the planned township of Chandigarh has been successful in promoting
social integration through well-designed neighborhoods and public spaces.

In conclusion, while satellite towns offer opportunities for urban growth and development, their success
depends on effective planning, infrastructure investment, economic diversification, and social integration.

(c) Sphere of urban influence

The sphere of urban influence refers to the geographic area surrounding a city or urban center that is
economically, socially, and functionally connected to it.

1. Economic Dependency: Cities exert significant economic influence on their surrounding regions
by attracting businesses, industries, and investment. However, over-reliance on the urban
economy can lead to economic vulnerability in the hinterland. For example, the sphere of
influence of Mumbai extends to neighboring districts such as Thane and Raigad, where industries
and businesses are dependent on Mumbai's markets and resources.
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2. Infrastructure Strain: The expansion of urban influence often places strain on infrastructure and
resources in the surrounding areas. Increased demand for transportation, housing, water, and
sanitation services can overwhelm existing infrastructure and lead to service deficiencies. For
instance, the sphere of influence of Bengaluru extends to peri-urban areas like Whitefield and
Electronic City, where rapid urbanization has strained infrastructure and led to traffic congestion
and water scarcity.

3. Land Use Changes: Cities influence land use patterns in their spheres of influence through
urban sprawl, land speculation, and development pressures. Agricultural land may be converted
into residential, commercial, or industrial uses, impacting food security and rural livelihoods. For
example, the sphere of influence of Delhi extends to neighboring districts like Gurgaon and Noida,
where agricultural land has been converted into urban developments and special economic
zones.

4. Socio-Economic Disparities: The sphere of urban influence may exacerbate socio-economic

disparities between urban and rural areas. While urban centers offer employment opportunities,
higher wages, and better access to services, rural areas may experience outmigration, brain drain,
and loss of local resources. For example, the sphere of influence of Hyderabad extends to peri-
urban areas like Shamshabad, where rapid urbanization has led to socio-economic disparities
and marginalized communities.

5. Environmental Degradation: Urban influence can contribute to environmental degradation in

the surrounding regions through pollution, deforestation, and habitat loss. Industrial activities,
vehicular emissions, and waste generation from urban centers may affect air and water quality,
soil fertility, and biodiversity. For example, the sphere of influence of Kolkata extends to
neighboring districts like Howrah and Hooghly, where pollution from industries and urban
activities has degraded the environment and affected public health.

In conclusion, while the sphere of urban influence brings economic opportunities and development to
surrounding regions, it also poses challenges related to infrastructure, land use, socio-economic
disparities, and environmental sustainability. Effective planning, governance, and sustainable
development strategies are essential to mitigate these challenges and ensure balanced and inclusive
growth within the urban influence areas.

(d) distance decay principle

The distance decay principle, also known as the distance decay effect or the gravity model, is a concept
in geography that describes the diminishing interaction or correlation between places as the distance
between them increases. Here are critical notes on the distance decay principle:

• Spatial Interaction: The distance decay principle acknowledges that spatial interaction, such as
trade, migration, or communication, tends to decrease with distance. This is intuitive, as people
and goods are less likely to travel long distances compared to shorter ones due to factors such as
cost, time, and convenience.

• Economic Implications: Distance decay has significant economic implications, particularly for
trade and market access. As distance increases, transportation costs tend to rise, reducing the
feasibility of economic transactions between distant locations. This can lead to the development
of regional or local markets and trade networks.
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• Cultural and Social Connections: Distance decay affects cultural and social connections
between places. People are more likely to interact and form social networks with others who are
geographically closer to them, leading to the formation of local communities and identity. Long-
distance relationships or interactions become less frequent due to the challenges posed by
distance.

• Technological Advances: While distance decay has historically been a significant factor
shaping human interactions, advancements in transportation and communication technologies
have mitigated its effects to some extent. For example, the internet and telecommunications allow
for instant communication and virtual interactions across vast distances, reducing the impact of
distance decay on certain types of interactions.

• Planning and Policy Implications: Distance decay considerations are essential in various
planning and policy domains, such as urban and regional planning, transportation planning, and
economic development. Understanding how distance affects spatial interactions helps
policymakers and planners make informed decisions about infrastructure investments, service
provision, and resource allocation.

• Spatial Variability: It's important to note that the degree of distance decay may vary depending
on factors such as geographical context, cultural norms, and technological advancements. In
some cases, the distance decay effect may be more pronounced, while in others, it may be less
significant.

In conclusion, the distance decay principle highlights the fundamental relationship between distance and
spatial interaction, shaping economic, social, and cultural dynamics. While advancements in technology
have mitigated its effects to some extent, distance decay remains a critical consideration in
understanding human geography and informing planning and policy decisions.

4. Discuss the functional classification of Indian towns in urban geography. How do different
types of urban centers contribute to the overall urban hierarchy?

In urban geography, the functional classification of Indian towns refers to categorizing urban centers based
on their functions, economic activities, and administrative roles. This classification helps in understanding
the hierarchical structure of urban settlements and their contributions to regional development. Here's a
discussion on the functional classification of Indian towns and their role in the urban hierarchy:

• Metropolitan Cities: Metropolitan cities are large urban centers with diverse economic activities,
significant administrative functions, and high population densities. Examples include Mumbai,
Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai. These cities serve as regional economic hubs, attracting investments,
industries, and skilled labour. They also provide advanced infrastructure, educational institutions,
healthcare facilities, and cultural amenities.

• Tier I Cities: Tier I cities are major urban centers with considerable economic importance and
population size, although slightly smaller than metropolitan cities. Examples include Bengaluru,
Hyderabad, Pune, and Ahmedabad. These cities play vital roles in regional economies, hosting
industries, commercial activities, and service sectors. They also serve as centers for innovation,
research, and technology development.
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• Tier II Cities: Tier II cities are medium-sized urban centers with growing economic significance and
infrastructure development. Examples include Jaipur, Lucknow, Surat, and Nagpur. These cities
experience rapid urbanization and industrialization, attracting investments in manufacturing,
commerce, and real estate. They also serve as administrative centers for surrounding regions,
providing governance and public services.

• Tier III Cities: Tier III cities are smaller urban centers with emerging economic activities and urban
amenities. Examples include Bhopal, Kochi, Bhubaneswar, and Patna. These cities are
experiencing growth in sectors such as education, healthcare, tourism, and small-scale industries.
They often serve as market towns, catering to the needs of surrounding rural areas and fostering
local entrepreneurship.

• Urban Agglomerations: Urban agglomerations comprise clusters of closely located urban

settlements, including cities, towns, and peri-urban areas. Examples include the National Capital
Region (NCR), Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), and Kolkata Metropolitan Area (KMA). These
agglomerations exhibit functional interdependencies, sharing labour markets, transportation
networks, and economic linkages.

Each type of urban center in India contributes differently to the overall urban hierarchy and regional
development:

➢ Metropolitan cities and Tier I cities serve as primary economic engines, driving national growth and
innovation.
➢ Tier II and Tier III cities play crucial roles in decentralizing economic activities, promoting balanced
regional development, and reducing urban-rural disparities.
➢ Urban agglomerations facilitate collaboration and resource sharing among neighboring urban
centers, fostering integrated development and enhancing regional competitiveness.
In summary, the functional classification of Indian towns reflects the diverse roles and contributions of
urban centers to the overall urban hierarchy and regional development process. Understanding these
classifications is essential for informed urban planning, infrastructure development, and policy formulation
aimed at promoting sustainable urban growth and inclusive development across India.

Do read ASHOK MITRA, MK JAIN and Qazi Ahmad functional classification of Indian Towns on
your own.

ASHOK MITRA : https://pangeography.com/functional-classification-of-towns-by-ashok-

mitra/#:~:text=Ashok%20Mitra%20gave%20his%20functional,India%20based%20on%20eco
nomic%20function.

M.K. Jain : https://pangeography.com/classification-of-towns-in-india/

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5. Citing suitable examples from India, explain the role of site and other physical factors in
determining the types and patterns of rural settlements.

The role of site and other physical factors plays a crucial role in determining the types and patterns of
rural settlements in India. Here's how:

1. Topography: The topography of a site influences the layout and pattern of rural settlements. In
hilly or mountainous regions like the Himalayas or the Western Ghats, villages often form terraced
settlements along slopes to maximize agricultural land use and minimize the risk of landslides. For
example, villages in Uttarakhand are situated on terraced slopes to utilize available agricultural
land effectively.

2. Water Availability: The presence of water sources such as rivers, streams, or wells significantly
influences the location and growth of rural settlements. Villages tend to develop near water
bodies for irrigation, drinking water, and domestic use. For instance, villages along the banks of
the Ganges River in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar have flourished due to access to water for agriculture
and daily needs.

3. Soil Fertility: Soil fertility determines the suitability of land for agricultural activities, which, in turn,
influences settlement patterns. Villages often develop in areas with fertile soil conducive to
agriculture. For example, the fertile alluvial plains of northern India, such as the Indo-Gangetic
Plain, support dense rural settlements due to their productivity and agricultural potential.

4. Climate and Natural Hazards: Climate conditions and susceptibility to natural hazards also shape
rural settlement patterns. In arid or semi-arid regions like Rajasthan, villages are typically clustered
around oases or areas with access to groundwater. Conversely, areas prone to flooding or
cyclones may have dispersed or elevated settlements to mitigate the risks associated with natural
disasters.

5. Vegetation and Land Cover: The type of vegetation and land cover influences settlement patterns
by providing resources for livelihoods and shelter. Forested areas often have dispersed or linear
settlements, with villagers relying on forest resources for fuelwood, fodder, and non-timber forest
products. The Banni grasslands in Gujarat, for example, are home to pastoral communities that
follow a semi-nomadic lifestyle.

6. Accessibility and Connectivity: The accessibility of a site in terms of transportation networks and
connectivity to markets and urban centers influences settlement patterns. Villages located along
major roads or near transportation hubs may experience greater economic opportunities and
growth. For instance, villages along national highways or railway lines in Punjab have better
access to markets for agricultural produce.

In conclusion, site and physical factors such as topography, water availability, soil fertility, climate, natural
hazards, vegetation, and accessibility play a significant role in determining the types and patterns of rural
settlements in India. Understanding these factors is essential for effective rural planning and
development initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods and promoting sustainable rural communities.