FINAL REPORT LAP

REPORT
LOCAL AREA PLANNING- GAIRSAIN

Planning Lab V (BPLN0511)
SEMESTER- V
DEPARTMENT OF URBAN AND REGIONAL PLANNING
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Kshama Puntambekar and Dr. Ashfaque
Alam, our esteemed faculty coordinators, for their unwavering support and invaluable guidance
throughout the process of preparing the Local Area Plans for Gairsain Nagar Panchayat. Their
expertise and encouragement played a pivotal role in shaping this academic endeavour.
Special appreciation is extended to Mr. Kamlesh Mehta, the SDM of Gairsain, for graciously
sharing his time and insights, contributing significantly to the depth and comprehensiveness of
our assignment. His cooperation and willingness to engage in discussions greatly enriched our
understanding of the local context.
We extend our sincere thanks to officials from various government departments who
generously shared their inputs and information, contributing to the robustness of our Local
Area Plans. Their expertise and collaboration were instrumental in ensuring the accuracy and
relevance of our work.
A heartfelt acknowledgment is also due to the residents of Gairsain for their warm hospitality
and active participation in providing valuable suggestions. Their input has been instrumental
in shaping the plans, ensuring that they are reflective of the community's needs and aspirations.
In conclusion, we are profoundly grateful to all those who contributed to this academic
assignment. The collaborative efforts of our faculty coordinators, government officials, and the
local community have been instrumental in making this exercise a meaningful and enriching
experience.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Master Plan and Zonal Development Plan have been crucial components of the planning
process for many years. With its emphasis on grassroots level planning that was felt across the
domain, the Local Area Plan served to reinforce this hierarchy. Since Gairsain, Uttarakhand's
recently designated summer capital, is still in the development stage of its Master Plan, it needs
a Local Area Plan, the smallest planning unit.
Overview
Standing with the population of 7139 as per Census 2011, Gairsain Nagar Panchayat area has
seen a decadal decrease in its sex-ratio in contrast to an increase in both the literacy rate as well
as the working population. The working population of the planning area as of 2011 has shifted
its reliance from primary sector jobs to secondary and tertiary sector which has led to an
increase in the area's economy.
Sectoral Analysis
To observe all the challenges and problems in the Gairsain Nagar Panchayat, a sectoral level
analysis has been performed for all the sectors such as housing, physical Infrastructure, social
Infrastructure, transportation, economy, etc.
Observations
For this growing population and economy, the existence and functioning of physical
infrastructure, social infrastructure, and transportation facility as well as services play a crucial
part in catering to its needs which has been observed at both the scale of Nagar Panchayat level
and Ward level. Through the observation at these scales, the following findings have been
highlighted:
• The area is connected to the entirety of Uttarakhand both internally and externally by
the existence of National Highways 58, 87, 109, and 125 all the while public transport
being the most popular mode of transport due to convenience.
• Tourism industry has promising future in the area.
• There are community level hospitals, veterinary centres and allopathic as well as
ayurvedic dispensaries although distance factor negates the convenience.
• The Uttarakhand Government has brought up various schemes and policies for the able
bodied as well the as the disabled students.
• There are economic prospects for mixed-use development only in the Wards 4, 3 and 2
respectively.
• Ward 1 and Ward 6 have majority of its population earning a household income less
than Rs 25,000 indicating a need for economic push.
• 58.6% of the working population of Ward 1 is dependent on farming despite the current
high property value of Rs 2800 per sqm in ‘Other Land Property’ category.
Proposals
Ward level solutions have been designed for each problem sector of the respective Ward(s) such
as Watershed management, Sustainable Economic Development, Land-use proposal, Junction redesign
and Placemaking.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART 1: OVERVIEW
1.INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................. 1
1.1 Need for Local Area Plan ................................................................................................. 1
1.2 Selection Criteria for Study Area ..................................................................................... 1
1.3 Literature Review ............................................................................................................. 2
1.4 Aim ................................................................................................................................... 4
1.5 Objective .......................................................................................................................... 5
1.6 Vision ............................................................................................................................... 5
1.7 Methodology .................................................................................................................... 5
PART 2: SECTORAL ANALYSIS

1.Regional Setting .................................................................................................................... 7
2.LULC Distribution................................................................................................................ 9
3. Demography ....................................................................................................................... 10
4. Housing ............................................................................................................................... 11
5. Social Infrastructure .......................................................................................................... 12
6. Physical Infrastructure ...................................................................................................... 16
7. Mobility and Transport ..................................................................................................... 20
8. Economy.............................................................................................................................. 24
9. Environment and Disaster Management ......................................................................... 35
10 Governance ........................................................................................................................ 41
11. SWOC Analysis ................................................................................................................ 43
PART 3: WARD-WISE LOCAL AREA PLAN

WARD 1
1. Introduction ........................................................................................................................ 47
2. LULC Distribution............................................................................................................. 48
3. Demography ....................................................................................................................... 51
5. Future Strategy and Proposals ......................................................................................... 53
WARD 2
1. Introduction ........................................................................................................................ 63
3. Demography ....................................................................................................................... 66
4. Housing and Physical Infrastructure ............................................................................... 67
5. Socio- Economic Profile ..................................................................................................... 70
7. SWOC Analysis .................................................................................................................. 75
WARD 3
1. Introduction ........................................................................................................................ 83
3. Demography ....................................................................................................................... 87
4. Housing and Physical Infrastructure ............................................................................... 89
WARD 4
1. Introduction ...................................................................................................................... 103
2. LULC Distribution........................................................................................................... 106
3. Demography ..................................................................................................................... 112
4. Housing and Physical Infrastructure ............................................................................. 115
5. Social Infrastructure ........................................................................................................ 119
6. Future Strategy and Proposals ....................................................................................... 120
WARD 5
1. Introduction ...................................................................................................................... 127
2. Demography ..................................................................................................................... 130
6. Environment and Disaster Management ....................................................................... 138
WARD 6
1. Introduction ...................................................................................................................... 146
2. Demography ..................................................................................................................... 147
4. Socio Economic Profile .................................................................................................... 151
WARD 7
1. Introduction ...................................................................................................................... 160
3. Socio Economic Profile .................................................................................................... 165
PART 1: OVERVIEW
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Need for Local Area Planning
The third tier of planning in the urban areas of India is shaped by the Local Area Plan, following
the City Master Plan and Zonal Development Plan as the first and second tiers, respectively.
Serving as the smallest component in the City’s planning process, it plays a crucial role in
implementing the objectives of the City Master Plan and Zonal Plans. Acting as a bridge for
local citizens to actively engage and understand on-the-ground realities, such as infrastructure
deficiencies and the market demand for space and services, the Local Area Plan is more
comprehensive than just a land use map and development controls. It offers an inclusive
comprehension of existing conditions and community needs, encompassing amenities,
services, utilities, transportation, traffic, and environmental impacts of proposed
improvements. Additionally, it evaluates the feasibility of redevelopment and its viability in
the real estate market. The process concludes with the formulation of an implementation
strategy to ensure the timely execution of the Local Area Plan. All these elements must be
transparently presented to the community, providing them with clear and comprehensive
information to make informed decisions about their preferences and how they can be fulfilled
within a specified timeframe.
Since the enactment of the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act in 1992, Urban Local Bodies
have been empowered for urban development activities. The absence of Local Area Plan is a
primary reason of many Indian cities not taking shape as per their Master Plan vision. The
following three reasons have been outlined underscoring the need for ward-level Local Area
Planning for Gairsain.
• Gairsain being the Summer Capital of Uttarakhand will experience intensified
development pressure in the coming years. The sensitive ecology necessitates spatial
development strategies at the ward level.
• Infrastructural gaps and lack of employment opportunities demands development
strategies at the local level.
It is at the local level that a ‘place’ becomes a physical, community and economic reality. As
such, Local Area Planning becomes an efficient tool for comprehensive development.
1.2 Study Area Selection

The study area of Gairsain has been taken to develop a comprehensive understanding of Local
Area Plan including 15 villages ( Koliyana laga Saliyana, Koliyana laga Dhargair, Jaittolilaga
Gwar, Pitota laga Gair, Saliyana, Dwar, Gair, Gwar, Gadoli, Ganwali, Rikholi, Kantriyana,
Soniyana, Dhargair, Silangi, Sainji, Bausar) which have been divided into 7 wards by Gairsain
Nagar Panchayat. These villages fall under the planning area of Gairsain, which has been
recently declared as the Summer Capital of Uttarakhand. The region has been connected to
Karna Prayag and Ranikhet through National Highway 109. The Ramganga river runs along
the whole study area and is the major source of water. The area is of significance due to its
proximity to Vidhan Sabha and the growing population over the years along with the intense
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forest cover and provides an opportunity to understand the characteristics of pre-existing
conditions of the study area along with its ecological sensitive nature. This will not only
broaden our understanding of developing Local Area Plans but motivate us to adopt approaches
that are sustainable and innovative.
1.3 Literature Review

In a city or town, a local area plan (LAP) is a planning document that focuses on the growth
and management of a particular local area. LAPs are an integral part of urban planning and
usually developed by urban local bodies like municipalities or municipal corporations. Within
the larger framework of the city or town's master plan, these plans are used to direct
and manage the growth and development of a particular locality or neighbourhood.
Benefits
1.Social -
• Improvement of living conditions and quality of life
• Need of conservation and up gradation of the existing situation
2.Economic
• Diversification for instance in fishing, agriculture and the migrants from
industries would
• Stimulate economic development.
3.Environmental
• Management of existing environments
• Waste management improvement
Purpose of LAP
Depending on the type of development and character envisioned for the area, the reason for
each LAP's planning may differ from area to area.
Many different varieties of LAPs can be made:
• LAP for regions with transit-oriented development
• LAP for CBDs (Central Business Districts), which are important business regions.
• LAP for the central city and existing urban districts.
• LAP for preserving and reviving historic districts and precincts.
• LAP for communities near high-speed rail stations, airports, and other transportation
hubs, both current and future.
• LAP for specific goals including enhancing regions with squatter communities, tourist
hotspots, knowledge precincts, etc.
A case of Shimla
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Due to its high topography, complex geological structure, unfavourable climatic conditions,
and delicate ecosystem, Indian hill cities have encountered several difficulties in regard to their
growth. Most of these rural hill towns are well-known tourist sites. India's hill cities,
particularly Shimla (the capital of Himachal Pradesh), which has been used as a case study, are
dealing with issues like outdated and insufficient infrastructure, environmental degradation, an
energy crisis, and the need to create jobs in an area that is extremely eco-sensitive and
physically constrained. It becomes crucial in this situation to design scalable, intelligent, and
interoperable contemporary infrastructure. During the British era, the city of Shimla, which is
now the state capital of Himachal Pradesh, was established as the administrative and political
centre of India. The settlement is located at an elevation of 2130 metres above mean sea level
on the final crossing spur of the Central Himalayas, south of the Satluj River, at latitudes of
310 4' to 310 10' North and 770 5' to 770 15' East. The city is a distinctive blend of valleys,
spurs, and hills in the Shimla city area. The current city of Shimla, which has low-rise, low-
density developments composed of cottages for European and Indian aristocracy and includes
commercial and social services, was designed for a population of 25,000. Due to the
concentration of employment and economic activity, the city attracted people from
neighbouring districts and the surrounding areas following independence. The city saw
exponential expansion in administrative, cultural, educational, health, and tourist-related
activities after becoming the state's capital. Municipal Corporation of Shimla oversees the city's
35.34 sq km total territory. The city's total population in 2011 was 169 758, compared to 142
555 in 2001. Due to its location in Seismic Zone IV, Shimla city is extremely susceptible to
natural disasters like earthquakes, landslides, and land subsidence. Due to unchecked
development, an expanding population, a subpar sewer and drainage infrastructure, and
unrestricted population growth, about 25% of the entire city is in a sinking zone. The city's
crisis position can be ascribed to two things: first, the failure to create a long-term urban and
regional planning policy; and second, the laziness in carrying out the current planning and
development norms. The metropolis has expanded both horizontally and vertically over the
past 20 years without regard for the urban shape or the surrounding environment. With a
significant population exodus to Shimla and its close bordering settlements (peri-urban
regions), the chaotic situation is getting worse. The goal of the Smart Environment is to
optimise and conserve natural resources generally through effective urban planning, strong
connectivity, and attractive city planning. As was previously said, the city has seen an
unmatched physical alteration. More recently, however, the city has also experienced
remarkable climatic variations, including rising summer temperatures, unpredictable and
unusual monsoon rainstorms, dry periods, and a decline in snowfall. Applying the ideas and
technologies of smart cities will require a holistic strategy if "sustainable development" is to
become the primary focus of physical development policy. The foundations of a smart
environment are discussed in the part that follows, along with how it relates to architectural
form.
A Case of Nainital
Topography
• It is important to understand the topography of the area in a hilly area to get a further
understanding of the possible areas for development in context of the slopes and the
natural drainage.
• The topography studies were done on the basis of the DEM obtained from Cartosat 2.
• Elevation ranges from 565 m to 1025 m.
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Slope Analysis
It is important to protect the slopes in hilly areas with steep slopes and heavy rainfall to avoid
soil erosion and the disasters that may be caused due to slope stability failure.
Surface Hydrology Location and Order of Water Streams
• Proposing and maintaining of clear drainage ways.
• Buffer along the water streams to protect and preserve the natural drainage pattern.
• Maintaining buffer will help to reduce flooding, soil erosion etc.
Road Network and Steep Slopes

The need for appropriate slope protection measures is evident due to
o Soil erosion due to high slopes.
o High intensity rain fall.
“Any area above 600 m in height from mean sea level, or any area with average slope of 30°,
considering the sensitive and fragile eco‐system of hills and mountains.”- NBC 2016
Common Issues faced while planning for Hilly cities:
1. Hilly areas in Himalayas and Northeast experience heavy rainfall, which makes the
shallow soil, cover highly susceptible to erosion These conditions necessitate
conserving the precious soil cover during monsoons and harvesting irrigation water for
dry months. In other areas heavy rainfall causes deep weathering of sedimentary rock
and rapid and active erosion of weathered materials from steep slopes.
2. There are issues with respect to mobility and connectivity due to steep slopes and
difficult terrain.
3. Geographically younger hill areas with high seismic activities make settlements
vulnerable to disaster risks. Adherence to seismic code specific to seismic design of
buildings is to be made mandatory for plan approval in hill areas.
4. In hilly areas, remarkable variations in culture and practices (including in many places
tribal culture and rich craft skill) exists between the settlements even within short
distances.
5. As terrain plays a crucial role in the hilly areas, settlements are to be on definite
habitable lands only and thus, its carrying capacity needs to be determined for adequate
planning.
6. Encroachment on forest land and precious green cover, construction on unsuitable lands
and development at higher level of ridges, thereby disturbing the natural ecosystem and
making the areas more vulnerable to disasters.
Factors to be considered during the development of hilly areas:
7. Mobile and emergency facilities
8. Communication network
9. Alternative mode of transportation communication network
10. Exposure to sunlight, degree of slopes and accessibility in the form of distance
travelled.
11. Flexibility in norms and standards to accommodate conditions guided by difficult hill
terrain and its geology.
1.4 Aim
“To prepare a GIS based Local Area Plan of Gairsain Nagar Panchayat, summer
capital of Uttarakhand.”
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1.5 Vision of UK
Economic revitalization and environmentally sustainable development of Gairsain as a
Capital city
1.6 Objectives
To achieve the said aim, the following set of objectives were selected for LAP
preparation:
• Preparation of baseline scenario
• Encouraging economic growth and increasing employment
opportunities
• Provision of required basic infrastructure providing adequate amenities
in Health, Education & Housing.
• Planning for Sustainable growth keeping environment (Forest &
Waterbodies) as a key factor
Guiding Principles
The criteria to carry out the work has certain guiding principles to streamline the plan
in accordance to the area and its spatial and environmental characteristics with the
purpose of allowing the objectives to sync with each other. These are the following
principles that have been taken into consideration:
• Environmental impact and sustainability keeping in mind the water bodies and
forest cover
• Development according to the terrain and connectivity of the city to other prime
locations
• Self-sufficiency to be achieved in terms of Utilities and services.
• Introduction of building regulations and codes
• Mitigation of Natural Disasters by restricting development in disaster prone
areas
1.7 Methodology
The Flow pattern of the project started with the background study and secondary source
information collection followed by literature review and reference to the city’s guidelines,
polices, case studies etc. going forward with site visit, surveys, data collection from the
respected departments, analysing the retrieved data, gap identification and finally proposing
ward level Local Area Plan.
• Background Study: The LAP land-use planning is critically concerned with the
guiding principles of environment protection, control growth, tourism, self-
sufficient. To do the detailed study of the area, a preliminary exercise of background
study is done which includes similar areas and case studies which are relevant in
case of Gairsain and its physical character. Various guidelines and approaches for
the same including, URDPFI, AMRUT, NBC, IRC Codes, Case studies, practical
examples including the case studies of Shimla and Nainital along with other hilly
areas.
• On ground survey: An extensive weeklong survey of each ward and sector was
carried out in small groups of people including, observational survey, questionnaire,
primary first-hand data collection and physical feature survey.
• Data collection: The town has its own Nager panchayat which has various other
departments such as Revenue department, Forest department, Micro and macro
irrigation, Health, Agriculture, Education, Police, Jal Nigam, Tourism etc from
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which the primary information regarding the area and its population, characteristics
and other categorisations are done.
• Sector wise analysis: The study area has been divided into 7 sectors to identify
and analysis the study area characteristics i.e. Regional Setting and Land Use,
Social Infrastructure and Governance, Physical Infrastructure, Transport Sector,
Housing and Demography, Environmental and Disaster Management, Economic
Sector. This gives the specifications and detailed analysis of how the area must be
developed and Gap analysis.
• Ward wise analysis: The Study area of Gairsain has 7 wards which run along
the Ramganga river having different sizes and population. On this basis, very ward
has been analysed individually keeping all the sectoral factors in command with the
proposals to be initiated.
• LAP preparation and Proposal: From the previous studies and analysis, the
overall exercise has been divided into 7 LAPs according to the respective wards and
the proposals for these wards are prepared with help of guidelines and gap analysis
from the previous steps from which a whole new Local Area Plan of Gairsain,
summer capital of Uttarakhand will be generated.
Figure 1.1 Methodology
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PART 2: SECTORAL ANALYSIS
1. REGIONAL SETTING
Gairsain, nestled amidst the Garhwal Himalayas, stands poised to become a beacon of
sustainable development in Uttarakhand. Its recent designation as the state's summer capital
opens a window for strategic planning, leveraging its unique regional setting for the benefit of
its people and the environment.
2.1 Geography and Connectivity:

Gairsain's central location offers strategic advantages. It acts as a bridge between the Garhwal
and Kumaon regions, fostering cultural exchange and regional integration. However, its
accessibility remains a challenge. While road connectivity exists, the lack of an airport hampers
tourism and economic growth. Upgrading existing roads, exploring sustainable transport
options, and prioritizing air connectivity are crucial first steps.
Location of city Importance Distance (by road)

Dehradun State Capital 255 km
Gopeshwar District Headquarters 86 km
Kathgodam Railway Station 162 km
Jolly Grant Airport Airport 232 km
Ranikhet Major City 82 km
Srinagar Major City 112 km
Table 2. 1: Distance of important places from Gairsain
Map 1.1: Relative location of Gairsain Map 1.2: Basemap of Gairsain
1.2 Socio-demographic Landscape:

Gairsain's population of around 15,000 predominantly comprises rural communities. This
vibrant tapestry of Garhwali and Kumaoni cultures faces the challenges of poverty and youth
unemployment. However, high literacy rates and improved healthcare infrastructure provide a
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foundation for social development. Tailored planning that respects the rural character while
fostering economic opportunities is key.
1.3 Environmental Treasures and Risks:

The Garhwal Himalayas are blessed with abundant water resources. The Alaknanda and
Mandakini rivers offer potential for hydropower and irrigation, but flood risks underline the
need for careful water management. Gairsain also boasts diverse flora and fauna, including
endangered species, necessitating sustainable land use practices and robust conservation
efforts. Its hilly terrain demands climate-resilient infrastructure to mitigate landslide and flood
risks.
1.4 Sustainable Development Roadmap:

Gairsain's journey towards sustainable development hinges on several key areas:
Infrastructure Development: Prioritizing road upgrades and exploring sustainable transport
options like ropeways and electric buses will enhance accessibility and reduce environmental
impact. Developing an eco-friendly airport, while mindful of noise and ecological concerns,
can unlock tourism potential.
Economic Diversification: Gairsain's economy currently relies primarily on agriculture.
Promoting agritourism, adventure tourism, and handicraft industries can create jobs and
diversify income sources. Leveraging local skills and natural resources while preserving
traditional practices is crucial.
Environmental Protection: Zoning regulations, green spaces, and eco-friendly construction
practices are essential for preserving natural resources and minimizing environmental
degradation. Waste management, water conservation, and renewable energy initiatives will
further solidify Gairsain's commitment to sustainability.
Social Development: Investing in education, healthcare, and skill development programs will
empower the local population and enhance their quality of life. Culturally sensitive
development plans that integrate traditional knowledge and practices can boost community
engagement and strengthen cultural identity.
Disaster Risk Reduction: Gairsain's vulnerability to landslides and floods requires proactive
measures. Implementing early warning systems, slope stabilization works, and community
preparedness training will minimize disaster risks and ensure the safety of residents.
1.5 Conclusion:
Gairsain's regional setting presents a unique opportunity for sustainable development in the
Himalayas. By prioritizing infrastructure development, environmental protection, economic
diversification, and social well-being, Gairsain can become a model Himalayan city, balancing
economic growth with respect for its people and the delicate mountain ecosystem. The journey
towards this ideal will require careful planning, community engagement, and a commitment to
innovation. By embracing sustainable practices and harnessing its rich cultural and natural
heritage, Gairsain can shine as a vibrant and resilient jewel in the crown of the Himalayas.
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2. LULC DISTRIBUTION
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3.DEMOGRAPHY
The Primary data was collected by a survey. The survey included household survey, The
Secondary data was collected from the Census of India Website- The PCA of Chamoli District
of the years 1991, 2001 and 2011. Gairsain has several Villages inside its Ward Boundary,
namely- Saliyana, Kumeli Laga Saliyana, Koliyana Laga Dhargair, Gwar, Gair, Jaitoli Laga
Gwar, Pitoti Laga Gair, Gadoli, Ganwali, Rikholi, Khatriyana, Soniyana, Dhargair, Silangi,
Sainji, and Bausar.
3.1 Population Overview

As of the most recent census data collected in 2011, the population of Gairsain stands at
approximately 7139. Over the past decade, there has been a slight increase in population.
3.2 Age Distribution

The age distribution within the village is diverse, with a breakdown as follows:
- Children (0-14 years): 15%
- Working-age adults (15-64 years): 82%
- Elderly population (65+ years): 3%
3.3 Education and Literacy

Education is valued within the community, and Gairsain boasts a 95% literacy rate among its
residents. Educational facilities cater to the academic needs of children, offering primary,
secondary, higher, and undergraduate education. 26% of the population has completed high
school, while efforts continue to improve access to higher education.
3.4 Occupations and Economic Activities:

The employment status of the population carries 52% self-employed, 20% private permanent
sector, 14% government permanent, 8% daily wages, 4% private temporary sector, and 2%
government temporary.
The primary occupations within Gairsain are agriculture, fishing, craftsmanship, cultivator,
livestock, rearing, manufacturing industry, transport storage or housewife. Agriculture remains
a vital economic activity, contributing significantly to the local economy.
3.5 Infrastructure and Amenities

Infrastructure in Gairsain includes roads, healthcare facilities, electricity, water supply, etc.
While the village enjoys access to essential services, there are ongoing initiatives to enhance
infrastructure development for improved living standards.
This demographic report provides a snapshot of Gairsain's population and key aspects, offering
insight into its socio-economic landscape and setting the groundwork for future development
strategies.
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4.HOUSING
The total number of households in the area is 2527. The development in the area is concentrated
in the centre of the town and scattered in the rest of the area. The calculated gross density is
3.3HH/Ha.
4.1 Methodology
The primary data was collected by a survey conducted which contained 8 questions covering
topics such as ownership status, age of the house, and assets of the household. There was also
an observational survey conducted to mark the building heights and typology. A representative
sample of 207 households were participants in the survey.
4.2 Key Findings

The dwelling units in Gairsain are 81% pucca and only about 2% of the dwelling units are
kutcha houses. Almost all residents owned their residence (87%). 38% of the houses in the area
are more than 35 years old and only 19% of the houses are less than 5 years old. Most of the
houses were detached houses (64); there were also plotted houses (18) and row houses (18) in
the area. The building heights were categorised by the number of floors: G, G+1, G+2 and G+3.
Graph 4.1 Building Height
The buildings use was also identified by the observational survey. The different building uses
are: Residential, Commercial, Educational, Mixed Uses, Public-Semi Public, Religious and
Government Land.
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Map 4.1. Building Height Map 4.2 Building Use
This analysis of the housing survey provides valuable insights to the availability and typology
of the buildings. By addressing the concerns and aligning regulations with the needs, Gairsain
can have a more inclusive community.
5. SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE
The Social Infrastructure encompasses education, health care, and the management of
education and health services that are provided by the basic social infrastructure. Any area's
infrastructure development encompasses both economic infrastructure development, which
includes the growth of numerous sectors such as energy, power, telecommunications,
transportation, information technology, finance, and so on, as well as infrastructures such as
education and health issues.
5.1 Health Care

There is 1 community Health Centre and 1 Subcentre inside the study area. Community Health
Gairsain is situated in ward 3 and Subcentre is in ward 2. There is a total of 95 Asha Workers
who work under this Community Health centre. Community Health Centre is the major health
care facility in the study area, which is a 30 bedded hospital. This health centre has an average
of 50-70 footfall per day and has 5 head officers and 3 MNMs. This hospital is provided with
a government ambulance and 3- 108 ambulances are also available. Pathology and radiology
labs are available in Health Centre. As this is a community level Infrastructure, people are
usually referred to AIIMS Rishikesh and Base Hospital Karnprayag for serious illness or heart-
based disease.
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Map 5.1 Health Centre and Sub Centre
Map 5.2 Ped – Shed Analysis Figure 5.1 Community Health Centre
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5.2 Education
According to the data collected from Block Development Office, Gairsain, there are around 20
primary, secondary and higher secondary schools in Gairsain Nagar Panchayat. There is one
Polytechnic college and two-degree colleges.
People from nearby villages also come to these schools.
5.2.2. Schemes
Mid-day meal program (P.M. Poshan yojana) This yojana provides total of 2652 meals which
includes 586 meals for class 1 students, 799 for class 2 students,863 for class 3 students, 766
for class 4 students,814 for class 5 students, 832 for class 6 students,898 for class 7 students
and 922 for class 8 students. Financial aid for children with special needs (cwsn) under ssa
which provides stipends of 1000 to 3000 rupees to 60 beneficiaries. Escort services for cwsn
students. It is for those students who needs special care / differently abled children. It provides
stipends of 6000 rupees to 60 beneficiaries. Financial aid of 2850 rupees for girl students of
class 9 and financial aid of 780/- for students from class 1-8 for buying footwear and bag
5.3 Animal Husbandry

Livestock farming is Germaine to Uttarakhand and forms an integral part of the rural economy
contributing in some form or the other to household income and family nutrition, besides
producing the much-needed biomass and draught power for agricultural operations. This
activity is carried out in several households across the area and provides employment to the
marginal and landless farmers.
The vision of Department of Animal Husbandry, Uttarakhand is –Intensifying & Creating

New Opportunities in The Field of Animal Husbandry for Increasing Employment Generation
And Enterprise Development in The State.
In the study area, there present V H Gairsain, a hospital which provides services for the entire
study area i.e..7 wards at Nagar panchayat and other 37 villages.
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The strategy adopted by the department to realize its vision is –Providing prophylactic &
therapeutic veterinary services, doorstep animal breeding facilities & production support
activities to the livestock farmers through its vast institutional network to improve animal
productivity & employment. The essential services provided by the department of animal
husbandry are listed in the table 5.1 below.
Sn. Departmental Services Block level annual Other remarks

No. targets
1 Animal treatment services 34000 Cow, bull, buffalo, sheep, goat, dog,
cat, pig, hen, and stray animals of all
type
2 Sterilization 2000 Ox, goat male, sheep male, horse
3 Vaccination 35000 Cow, bull, buffalo, calf, sheep, goat,
hen,
4 Drenching for Large animals 30000 Cow, bull, buffalo
5 Drenching Small Animal (To 12000 Sheep, goat
provide liquid nutrients for the sick)
6 Dipping of Small Animal (To 12000 Sheep, goat
prevent lice)
7 Artificial Insemination 2000 Cow, buffalo
8 Fodder and seed distribution According to To give green fodder to the animals
availability
Table 5.1 Essential services provided by the Department of animal husbandry.
There are different schemes provided by animal husbandry department for the better
participation of people into livestock farming, this includes State goat farming scheme, State
sheep farming scheme, State cow farming scheme, female goat farming scheme, chicken
farming and animal insurance. The other details like number of animals allocated criteria for
beneficiaries and departmental percentages are listed detailed in the table 5.2 below.
Sn. No Scheme Name Number of animals Criteria for Departmental Beneficiaries’

allocated beneficiaries percentage percentage
1 State goat 1 male goat BPL/SC/ST/Gen 90% 10%
farming
scheme 10 female goats per
unit
2 State sheep 1 male sheep -do- -do- -do-
farming
scheme 10 female sheep per
unit
3 State cow 1 lactating cow per -do- -do- -do-
farming unit
scheme
4 Female Goat 1 male goat widow all -
Farming
scheme 3 female goats per unit
5 Chicken 50 chickens per SC/ST all -
Farming beneficiary
15
6 Animal - SC/ST/Gen Gen 60% 40%
Insurance
SC/ST 80% 20%
BPL 80% 20%

Table 5.2 Information regarding schemes provided by animal husbandry department.
The animal census data gives the idea of the animals in the area, there are a total of 1044 cattle,
601 buffalos and 120 sheep in the study area, which gives a sum of 1765 animals in total. There
are 284 cattle and 67 buffalo in ward 1, 218 cattle, 109 buffalo and 93 goats in ward 2. Ward 3
has a count of 55 cattle, 90 buffalo and 75 goats. Ward 4 only has 12 cattle. In ward 5, there
are 55 cattle, 58 buffalo and only 2 goats. In ward 6 there are only cattle and buffalo are present,
the count is 207 and 188 respectively. There are 213 cattle, 89 buffalo and 8 goats are present
in ward 7. These data are represented clearly in the table 5.3 below.
The animal census and distribution of animals in ward wise are represented in the map 5.2
below.
Ward Cattle Buffalo Goat Total

1 284 67 0 351
2 218 109 35 362
3 55 90 75 220
4 12 0 0 12
5 55 58 2 113
6 207 188 0 395
7 213 89 8 310
Total 1044 601 120 1765
Table 5.3 Animal Census, 2023
Map 5.2 Animal Census
6.PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
6.1. Roads
In Gairsain Nagar Panchayat, Road widths range from 1.5 to 8 metres (NH-109), while trail
widths are limited to 1 metre respectively showing in Map 7.1 below. The total length of the
road is 59.8 kms in the study area with total area under roads is 21 hectares covering a
percentage of 1.45 out of the total planning area.
16
Table 7.1 Road width variation with length and area
Map 7.1 Road width variation
6.2. Water Supply

There are ten small streams (gadheras) presently that provide water and Fourteen water
storage tanks. Affected Areas from water scarcity (Out of Built-Up Area), Highly affected
is 8.18%, Moderate affected is 74.16%, and least affected is 17.66%. The primary source
of water is house connection for 85% of the Nagar Panchayat. Water meters are present in
almost half of the total households (i.e. 48%). Water is mostly supplied twice in a day for
more than 2 hrs. Every four months, a charge for the household connection is generated.
The average monthly water bill for a household is 350 Rs.
17
Graph 6.1 Primary source of water
Graph 6.2 Frequency of water supply
Graph 6.3 Duration of water supply
Map 6.2 showing Water Streams
Graph 6.4 Presence of water meter
18
Map 7.3 showing Water Scarcity areas.
6.3 Electricity
The source of power supply is Simli. There is total 14 transformers in the study area. Almost
93% of the households are having metered connections. The average electricity bill per
month is 500rs for 55% of the households (i.e. 118).
1. Fig 7.1 showing power supply network Source: Electricity dept.
6.4 Solid Waste Management

1.2 tonnes of waste are produced per day. Car-2 and Truck-3 are the garbage collection
trucks. Twice a week, road sweepers use to clean the roads. There is no household-level
garbage segregation. Pit for vermicompost: 13.5 cubic metres X 2 (2000 square metres). 79%
of the households are having door to door collection on a regular basis i.e. everyday for 94%
of the households.
19
8% 4% Door-to-door
9%
Community
Bins
79% Burning
Open Disposal
Disposal Technique
Graph 7.5 Disposal Technique
6.5 Sanitation
100% availability of toilets in all the households of the area. 82% of the area has soak pits for
the sewer discharge. 76% of the area has open drains.
Graph 7.7 Sewer Discharge type
Graph 7.6 Type of Drainage
7. MOBILITY AND TRANSPORT

7.1 Road Hierarchy
Road hierarchy is a classification system that categorizes roads based on their functions,
capacities and intended use. It is a crucial element of urban planning and transportation
infrastructure, ensuring efficient and safe traffic flow, promoting accessibility, and enhancing
the overall functionality of a city or region.
The road network in Gairsain is well-maintained and provides good connectivity to the town
and its surroundings. The NH and SH provide fast and efficient transport links to other major
towns in the state, while the MDR and Other roads provide access to the villages in the region.
7.1.1. The existing road infrastructure in Gairsain, Uttarakhand

• National Highway 125 (NH 125): This highway connects Gairsain to other major
towns in Uttarakhand, such as Almora, Ranikhet, and Nainital.
• State Highway (SH): SH 92 connects Gairsain to Pauri Garhwal, another major town
in Uttarakhand.
• Major District Road (MDR): MDR 66 connects Gairsain to Chamoli, the district
headquarters.
• Other District Roads (ODR): There are a number of ODRs that connect Gairsain to
other villages in the region.
20
• Local Roads (LR): LRs connect Gairsain to the various hamlets and villages in the
area.
Map 7.1. Road Hierarchy Map of Gairsain
7.1.2. The existing road infrastructure in Gairsain, Uttarakhand, India consists of

the following:
• National Highway 87: This highway connects Gairsain to other major towns in
Uttarakhand, such as Almora, Ranikhet, and Nainital.
• Near Ramleela Ground, NH-109, Main Market Rd: This road is in the main market area
of Gairsain and provides access to a variety of shops and businesses.
• 75Q4+R5H, NH 58, Gauchar, Nag Lagasari: This road is in the Gauchar area of
Gairsain and provides access to a few villages and hamlets.
• Gairsain: This is the main road in Gairsain and provides access to all the major
landmarks in the town.
• Gairsain, Khadun Laga Gawali: This road is in the Khadun Laga Gawali area of
Gairsain and provides access to a number of villages and hamlets.
21
7.2. Proposed Width Widening of NH 109 in Gairsain
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has proposed the widening of NH-109 in
Gairsain, Uttarakhand. The project aims to improve the connectivity and efficiency of the
national highway, which is a crucial link between Gairsain and other major towns in the region.
The proposed widening of NH 109 in Gairsain will involve expanding the total length of 64
km of the existing 4.5m R.O.W. into 20m. The road width will be expanded from the centre of
the existing to 10m on both sides. This will significantly improve the traffic flow and reduce
congestion on the highway. The wider road will also make it safer for motorists and pedestrians.
Map 8.2 20m NH proposal
The proposed widening of NH-109 is necessary to address several issues:

• Increased Traffic: The existing two-lane highway is unable to accommodate the
growing volume of traffic, leading to congestion and delays. The widening will provide
additional capacity and improve traffic flow.
• Safety Concerns: The narrow lanes and sharp bends on the existing highway pose
safety risks to motorists. The widening will allow for wider lanes, improved signage,
and better visibility, enhancing road safety.
• Economic Development: NH-109 serves as a vital economic corridor connecting
Gairsain to other major towns and industrial hubs. Widening the highway will facilitate
better connectivity and promote regional economic growth.
• Tourism Promotion: Gairsain and the surrounding areas are popular tourist
destinations. Improving the highway will encourage more tourists to visit the region
and boost the local economy.
• Accessibility Enhancement: The widening will provide better access to villages and
hamlets along the highway, improving their connectivity with the rest of the district and
state.
22
• 7.3. Primary Data
7.3.1. Mode of Transportation & Influence for choice of transportation: -
Mode of Transportation Influence for choice of transportation
15%
17.90%
12%
2% 12.60%
7% 62%
69.50%
2%
Walk Bicycle Car (alone)

Car (Pool) Public Transportation 2 wheeler Convinence Travel time Cost
Graph 7.1: Mode of Transportation
Graph 7.2 : Choice of transportation
• Most of the sample population commutes to their place of work by walking. This
suggests that walking is a popular and convenient mode of transportation in this area.
• A significant portion of the population uses a two-wheeler for commuting. This could
be due to factors such as the affordability and convenience of two-wheelers, or the lack
of reliable public transportation options.
• Public transport is also a popular choice, with 12% of the sample population using it.
This suggests that there is a demand for public transportation in this area, and that the
existing public transportation system is meeting the needs of at least some residents.
• Car usage is relatively low, with only 7% of the sample population using a car alone.
This could be due to factors such as the high cost of car ownership and operation, or
the availability of other transportation options.
• Carpooling is a relatively uncommon mode of transportation, with only 2% of the
sample population using it. This suggests that there is not a strong culture of carpooling
in this area.
• Bicycle usage is also relatively low, with only 2% of the sample population using it.
This could be due to factors such as the lack of safe bicycle infrastructure, or the hilly
terrain in the area.
These findings suggest that the most common modes of transportation in the sample population
are walking, 2-wheelers, and public transport. These modes of transportation are likely to be
the most convenient and affordable for most of the population. The use of cars, on the other
hand, is relatively low, which may be due to factors such as parking space, economic
conditions, cost, etc.
23
7.3.2. Influence on the choice of transportation method: -
• Convenience is the most important factor influencing transportation choice, with 69.5%
of the sample population citing it as the reason for their chosen mode of transport. This
suggests that people prioritize ease of access, comfort, and overall convenience when
making their transportation decisions.
• Travel time is also a significant factor, with 12.6% of the sample population choosing
their mode of transport based on how quickly it gets them to their destination. This
indicates that people value their time and are willing to compromise on other factors,
such as cost or convenience, to save time on their commute.
• Cost is a major concern for 17.9% of the sample population, suggesting that
affordability is a key consideration for transportation choices. This is particularly
relevant in areas with high living costs or for people with limited budgets.
7.3.3 Cost of Bus Fare: -
• Most of the sample population (59%) is either very

Cost of Bus Fare
satisfied (14%) or satisfied (45%) with the cost of bus 3%
7% 14%
fare. This suggests that most people find the current bus
fares to be reasonable and affordable.
• A significant portion of the population (31%) is neutral 31%

on the issue of bus fare costs. This indicates that they
are neither particularly satisfied nor dissatisfied with the
current fares. 45%
Very Satisfied Satisfied

• A smaller group of people (10%) is either dissatisfied Neutral Dissatisfied
(7%) or very dissatisfied (3%) with the cost of bus fare. This suggests that there is a
minority of the population who find the current bus fares
Graph 8.3: Cost of Bus Fare
to be too high.
Overall, the data suggests that most of the sample population is satisfied with the cost of bus
Introduction fare. However, there is a minority of people who are dissatisfied with the current fares. This
suggests that there may be a need to consider adjusting bus fares or implementing fare subsidies
to better cater to the needs of all users.
8. ECONOMY
8.1 Occupation Profile
From the primary survey, it was found that 26% of the working population in the study area
were cultivators, 5% were agricultural labourers, 8% were household industry workers and the
rest 61% came under the category of other workers. This category was further divided into
subcategories as per the census B2 classification as seen in Figure 8.1
24
Figure 9.1: Occupation Profile of Workers
While comparing the 1991, 2001 and 2011 census classifications, it was found that the number
of cultivators were gradually declining, and the number of other workers were increasing.
There was also a decrease observed in the number of household industry workers and an
increase in the number of agricultural labourers which might be due to in-migration.
46.63% 46.23% 45.28%

52.31% 52.22% 53.08%
0.33% 0.75%
0%
1.22% 0.89%
1.06%
CL AL HH OT CL AL HH OT CL AL HH OT
Graph Graph Graph 8.1.4: 2011 Census

Classification
8.1.2: 1991 Census 8.1.3: 2001 Census
Classification Classification
8.2 Household Income

The number of samples that could be collected for the household income data was 217. The
Household Income is divided into four classes.
• Up to Rs. 25,000
• Between Rs. 25.000 to Rs. 50,000
25
• Between Rs. 50,000 to 1 Lakh
• Above 1 Lakh
The survey data shows that almost half of the total households surveyed has an income less
than Rs. 25,000. 33% of the households have an income between Rs. 25000 to Rs.50000. Only
about 3% of the households have an income above Rs. 1 Lakh.
Graph Household Income Distribution from Primary Survey in Gairsain Town.
More than half of the households in Ward 1 and Ward 6 has an income below Rs. 25000, also
Ward 2, 3, and 5 has 30 to 50 percent of their household with this income. Ward 2 and Ward 7
has 50% and 64% of its household with income between Rs. 25000 to Rs. 50000 respectively.
The household income between Rs.50000 to 1 Lakh and Above Rs. 1 Lakh have the least
frequencies.
Fig: Household Income Distribution Bar Graph in Gairsain Nagar Panchayat Wards.
8.3 Market Profile

The Gairsain Market is located on either side of the National Highway 9. The catchment of the
Gairsain Market is around 15-20 villages with a maximum customer radius of 30km as
recorded from our primary survey. There are around 500 shops located in Gairsain providing
livelihood to around 7-10% of the population. Most of the shops are run by the owner itself,
26
restaurants and eateries are the only exception. The supplies are mainly sourced from Ramnagar
and Haldwani, around 170km away. Transportation cost consumes a major share of cost of
goods, the average cost being Rs. 110 per 100kg.
Figure 8.3.1 Daily Average Customer Footfall Figure 8.3.2 Average Customer Radius
Almost half of the shops reported an average customer footfall of less than 20, followed by the
range of 20 to 50, as depicted in fig. 9.5. The low customer footfall can be attributed to the
sparse population density. Gairsain is a rural to urban transition area with a primary rural
character. For the same reason, around 40% of the customers come from more than 2km
distance as we can see in fig. 9.6. As the customer base is not sufficient, business activities
tend to develop only in populated areas.
8.4 Horticulture
The following data was gathered from the horticulture department of Gairsain:
• The major fruits grown in Gairsain Block in winter were
apple, pear, plum, walnut, kiwi while during monsoon
guava, citurs species, pomogranate, grape and banana
was grown.
• Major vegetables grown – Radish, Carrot, Turnip, Potato,
Cabbage, Bottle gourd, Brinjal, Spinach, Pumkin, etc.
• Spices grown – turmeric, red chilli, corriander, fenugreek
• PMKSY (per drop more crop) under implementation
• Most produce is consumed locally. Malta, apple and
citrus fruits are sometimes sent to Haldwani.
• The department distributes all investment (like seeds,
saplings, fertilizers and insectisides) on subsidy basis (50 Figure 8.4.1: Cabbage
to 60%) Plantation; Source: Horticulture
Department, Gairsain
27
The following tables show the production data of fruits for the year 2022-23:
The following tables show the production data of vegetables and spices for the year 2022-23:
8.5 Food Processing

Currently there is one food processing unit functional near the Horticulture Department.
Another one with a Rs 10 crore budget has been proposed nearby. Squashes (citrus fruits,
rododendron flower), pickles (garlic, amla, red chilli) and jams are made here and all produce
in locally consumed. Only two are currently employed in the unit and they expressed the need
for more. Workshops for training women in food processing are also conducted here.
28
Figure 8.5.1: Food Processing Unit Figure 8.5.2: Squashes and Pickles
produced.
8.6 Sericulture
Over 100 people in 16 villages in the Gairsain block

get benefits from the RKVY scheme for rearing of
silkworms. The government provides an initial grant
of Rs 90,000 for setting up of polyhouses under the
condition of rearing silkworms for at least 10 years.
Beneficiaries come to the Gairsain Silk Farm to
collect the eggs and mulberry seeds (300 seeds area
granted per person) and the cocoons formed are
transported to Srinagar for processing. The major Figure 8.6.1: Workshops Conducted for
harvesting months area March-April (upto 1 quintal Women
produced) and September-October (upto 50 kg
produced). Depending on the grade of silk (A, B, C
and D) the price for the cocoon ranges from Rs 90-
450 per-kg. Depending on the grade of silk (A, B, C
and D) the price for the cocoon ranges from 90-450
per-kg
Figure 8.6.1: Silkworm Polyhouse, Gairsain
8.7. Tourism
There are several observed and identified potential tourism sites. These sites have been
accounted according to the on-field survey as well the results pertaining to the questionnaire.
29
1.Sarkot Village
•Located 20 km away from Gairsain.
•1.6 km away to Dudha Toli Danda Park.
•Attractive point due for its green lushful
meadows and scenic view of the Dudha Toli Range.
2. Ma Pathavari Nanda Thok

•Attraction point for tracking, 2.4 km away from
Gairsain.
•One of the oldest Maa bhagwati (Pathavari Nanda)
Hindu temple is located.
3. Shivalaya, Dhunarghat
•Situated at the banks of river Ramganga.
•3-4 km away from Gairsain Market.
30
8.8 Land & Real Estate Valuation
Land valuation maps have been prepared based on Circle Rates published by the Department
of Stamps and Registration, as of the date of 15 February 2023. The spatial representation of
the circle rates helps us to comprehend the variation of land and real estate prices over the
terrain. It may also give us a fair idea of whether the government valuation is reflecting the
actual land and property value. The circle rates published in Uttarakhand are based on distance
from the major road. Accordingly, there are two main categories of rates published for each
revenue village- Less than 200m from the major road and more than 200m from the major road.
Within each category there are sub-categories for (i) Agricultural Land; (ii) Non-Agricultural
Land; (iii) Flat in a Multi-storied residential building; (iv) Commercial Building; and (v) Non-
Commercial Building. For the, more than 200m category, the non-agricultural land rates have
been further sub-divided into 0-50m and up to 200m sub-categories.
Table 8.8.1 Circle Rates of Revenue Villages inside Gairsain Nagar Panchayat (up to 200m from the
major road)
Table 8.8.2 Circle Rates of Revenue Villages inside Gairsain Nagar Panchayat (up to a distance of 200m
from the major road)
As we can see from Table 8.8.1 and 8.8.2, four classes of revenue villages can be found within
Gairsain Nagar Panchayat. We can also see in the maps given below that there is not
significance distance variance of circle rates from the dense settlement area of Gairsain market.
31
This indicates some anomaly in deciding the circle rates, as the market value is not being
reflected.
Map 8.8.1 Circle Rates of Agricultural Land
32
Map 9.9.2 Circle Rates of Residential Buildings
33
Map 9.9.3 Circle Rates of Commercial Property
34
9 ENVIRONMENT AND DISASTER MANAGEMENT
9.1 Introduction
Gairsain is an area of significant environmental and disaster management concern. The region's
geographical features, including its mountainous terrain, make it susceptible to various natural
hazards such as landslides, flash floods, and earthquakes. Gairsain comes under the Ramganga
Soil Conservation Project that was initiated to contain the advancement of siltation in the
Kalagarh dam. This project, covering the catchment area of the streams feeding the dam, has
its head offices located in Ranikhet.
Geography and Topography: Gairsain is situated in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand,
characterized by its hilly and mountainous landscape. The susceptibility to landslides and
erosion poses a threat to the local environment and infrastructure.
Earthquakes, Floods, Landslides: According to the Bureau of Indian Standards, the town falls
under seismic zone 5, in a scale of 2 to 5 (in order of increasing vulnerability to earthquakes).
The monsoon season, typically from June to September, brings heavy rainfall to the region.
Intense and prolonged rainfall leads to floods. The steep slopes and hilly terrain in Gairsain
make it highly susceptible to landslides.
9.1.1 History of disasters in Gairsain.
Gairsain has experienced a significant history of seismic activity and landslides between
January 1, 1980, and October 1, 2023. The region has been particularly susceptible to
geological disturbances, with a notable frequency of earthquakes and landslides.
In this period, Gairsain endured a total of 3 earthquakes with a magnitude above 6 on the
Richter scale. These high-magnitude earthquakes pose a substantial threat to the local
population and infrastructure due to their potential for causing severe damage. Additionally,
there were 27 earthquakes recorded with magnitudes between 5 and 6, further contributing to
the region's seismic challenges.
A staggering 227 earthquakes between magnitudes 4 and 5 occurred in the same timeframe,
indicating a persistent level of seismic activity that, while not as extreme as the higher
magnitude events, still has the potential to cause damage and disrupt the local environment.
Furthermore, the area experienced 182 earthquakes with magnitudes between 3 and 4, as well
as 220 earthquakes falling within the 2 to 3 magnitude range. Additionally, 9 earthquakes below
magnitude 2 were recorded, highlighting a broad spectrum of seismic events affecting Gairsain.
Landslides have been a prevalent natural hazard in Uttarakhand, and between 1998 and 2022,
the state ranked second in India with a staggering 11,219 recorded landslides. Landslides are
typically triggered by factors such as heavy rainfall, seismic activity, and soil erosion, and their
occurrence in Gairsain contributes to the overall vulnerability of the region
Source- https://www.volcanodiscovery.com/region/58387/earthquakes/chamoli/archive/1980-
01-01-2023-10-01.html
35
9.2 Forest Department
9.2.1 Forest Department is located in Ward 4.
Fig.9.1 Assets of the Forest Department, Nagar Panchayat, Gairsain.
Fig.9.2 Visit to the Forest Department, Nagar Panchayat, Gairsain.
36
9.2.2 Data of Man- Animal conflicts
Sno Year Incident zone Type of attack
1 2019-20 Gol Guldar attack
2 2019-20 Sumerpur Bear attack
3 2020-21 Tendtuda Wild boar attack
4 2020-21 Rohida Guldar attack
5 2020-21 Jaskhola Bear attack
6 2021-22 Bhandadikod Bear attack
7 2021-22 Mehalchauri Bear attack
8 2021-22 Sainji Bear attack
9 2021-22 Bina Bear attack
10 2021-22 Kunigadbhalli Bear attack
11 2021-22 Sanji Bear attack
12 2021-22 Daingir Bear attack
13 2022-23 Bahubabhan Guldar attack
14 2022-23 Kunigad Guldar attack
15 2022-23 Kundadikhed Bear attack
16 2022-23 Raikot Snake bite
17 2022-23 Devmuni Guldar attack
18 2022-23 Singla Bear attack
19 2022-23 Kundadikhad Bear attack
20 2023-24 Raikot Snake bite
Table 9.1 Mani-Animal Conflicts (Source: Forest Department)
9.3 Land Cover Map
Fig.9.3 Forest land and Agricultural Areas dominate the Land cover. Type
of Forest: Civil Forest (Source: Forest Department)
37
9.4 Flood susceptibility Map
Fig.9.4 Gairsain’s overall flood susceptibility profile indicates a

mixture of low, moderate, and high-risk areas. Ward 2 is highly vulnerable.
9.5 Landslide susceptibility Map
Fig.9.5 The susceptibility to landslides and erosion poses a threat

to the local environment and infrastructure. Ward 2 is highly vulnerable.
38
Fig.9.6 Landslide prone areas. Ward 6 is highly vulnerable.
9.5.1 Ward-wise Vulnerability:

Ward 1: Identified as having a landslide-prone area, this suggests a localized susceptibility to
landslides.
Ward 2 and Ward 5: Both wards have two landslide-prone areas each. The presence of multiple
landslide-prone areas in these wards may indicate a higher overall vulnerability.
Ward 3 and Ward 4: These wards are reported to have zero landslide-prone areas.
Ward 6: Identified as having four landslide-prone areas, this ward appears to have a significant
susceptibility to landslides.
Ward 7: Reported to have one landslide-prone area, indicating a localized vulnerability.
Mitigation efforts in this ward should focus on the identified area to reduce the risk to
infrastructure and the community.
39
9.6 Disaster Compensation
Sno Year Compensation Injured Dead
1 2018-19 26,000/- 5 0
2 2019-20 8,29,400/- 9 2
3 2021-21 67,700/- 9 0
4 2021-22 4,61,000/- 8 1
5 2022-23 6,35,700/- 23 0
6 2023-24 4,25,200/- 26 0
Table 9.2 Compensation given out to victims of disasters. (Source: Revenue Department)
9.7 Household Survey:
40
10. GOVERNACE
The hierarchy shown in the flow chart below gives a thorough assessment of the governance
structures within three important departments: Revenue, Education, and Animal Husbandry.
10.1 Revenue Department
Figure 10.1 Governance Structure of Revenue Department
The Tehsildar oversees managing and coordinating the Revenue Department's numerous
responsibilities. The department is further subdivided into the role of Nazir, who is the
treasurer. The Revenue Collector oversees collecting revenue under the Nazir.
In parallel with the Nazir, the structure includes the Chief Administrative Officer, responsible
for administrative matters within the Revenue Department.
The Tax Collector is in the position of collecting different taxes within the jurisdiction. They
collaborate with Revenue Inspectors to verify that tax requirements are followed.
The Revenue Inspector is in responsible for inspecting revenue-related items and reports to the
Tax Collector. Sub Revenue Inspectors are part of the power hierarchy in this function. The
Sub Revenue Inspector, at the bottom of the hierarchy, carries out responsibilities delegated by
the Revenue Inspector.
10.2 Educational Department

The Education department of Gairsain is handled by the executives and the academics. Among
the executives, Chief education officer is the head of department, under whom there are 2
District Education Officer (one for Primary schools and the other for 9th-12th). Below that,
there’s a Block Education Officer and a Deputy Block Education Officer. The academics
includes Block Resource persons for each block to look after all the resources in the area.
41
Further, the block is divided into various Nyaya panchayats. Gairsain Block has 6 Nyaya
Panchayats namely, Gairsain, Adi Badri, Mahelchouri, Dewalkot, Kusrani and Gohada
Figure 10.2 Structure of Education Department
Figure 10.3 Structure of Animal Husbandry
The Animal Husbandry department of Gairsain is handled by the Secretary at the top and the
Director below him. Under the director comes 4 other Additional directors, they are Additional
Head Quarter, Additional director Kumaun, Additional director Garhwal and Additional
director livestock (Gopeshwar). At the district level there comes the Chief Veterinary Officer/
Joint Director below them Veterinary officers of grade one comes in block level. There are a
total of 37 Chief Veterinary Officer/ Joint Director in the district level and 152 Veterinary
officers of grade one in the block level. A total of 289 Veterinary officers of grade two comes
under Veterinary officers of grade one.
42
11. SWOC ANALYSIS
SWOC analysis is a strategic planning tool used to identify and evaluate the Strengths,
Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Challenges of the study area. Conducting a SWOC analysis
helps in understanding the current situation, making informed decisions, and developing
strategies to achieve the aim and objectives.
11.1 LULC Distribution and Land Suitability
Strength Weakness Opportunity Challenges
Due to Large variations in Large portions of Development is
comparatively flat terrain causes land are utilized for quite tough in the
land, commercial shortage of agriculture purposes area due to higher
activities are present developable land. (21.9%). elevation.
in the central area
which boosts the
economy of
Gairsain.
Way Forward:
Identification of developable land by performing land suitability analysis of the area would
give an idea about the area available for future development. The land suitability analysis shall
consider the critical factors such as slope, aspect, runoff pattern, NDVI and hill shade.
11.2 Housing & Demography

Majority of the There is huge As the population is The available vacant
houses of the area unavailability of growing due to land exists in less
are pucca in nature. parking spaces for urbanization, there is accessible areas.
vehicles. an increasing need
Younger population for housing stock for
migrate out of the in migrants.
area for pursuing
higher education.
Way Forward:
Identification of developable land would allow us to look for vacant land which can be used
for developing housing for the in migrants. Also, the need for parking spaces would be catered
by identifying vacant land.
11.3 Physical Infrastructure

Supply of electricity, 80% of households Residents of the area Supply of water
Sewerage system and are either moderately practice Rainwater to every
Solid Waste or highly affected by Harvesting at household is a
Management services water scarcity during household level. problem due to
are in good condition in April to June. uneven terrain
the area. There is an and steep
incomplete coverage
43
of water pipelines in contour
the area due to gradient.
topography.
Way Forward:
Augmentation of the existing water storage capacity of the tanks would eventually reduce the
water scarcity to a large extent.
11.4 Mobility and Transportation

National Highway 109 is There is less National Highway Some areas are
passing throughout accessibility by Authority of India inaccessible by
Gairsain Nagar vehicles in various has proposed road vehicles due to
Panchayat area. parts of the area. widening of steep slopes and
The preferred mode for Roads are not in National Highway undulating
commuting is walking. proper condition and 109 to 20m from terrain.
For the purpose of last also coverage of 7m.
mile connectivity, trails roads is incomplete.
are present.
Way Forward:
Existing trails can be developed further to enhance the comfort and convenience of pedestrians.
Condition of the roads can be improved for improving connectivity.
11.5 Social Infrastructure

Good education facilities There is improper Quality of prevailing Doctors don’t
are present in the area healthcare facility institutions for prefer to stay at
till higher secondary due to absence of graduation and post- Gairsain due to
level of school. doctors, especially graduation can be absence of
Community spaces & obstetricians. upgraded. facilities &
playgrounds are present There is amenities.
for community activities. unavailability of
roads in case of
emergency cases.
Way Forward:
Conversion of central playground into a multipurpose ground can be undertaken to foster
community participation and social integration in the area. Overall development of the area
would act as an instigating factor for doctors to stay in Gairsain.
11.6 Environment and Disaster Management

Residents of Gairsain Flooding occurs The civil forest can Landslide prone
have awareness & during the monsoon be converted into areas are
experience for disasters season and it usually. developable land to present on
National
44
such as Earthquakes, lasts between few further urbanize Highway 109.
Flooding etc. hours to few days. Gairsain. Gairsain is
The majority of the The reduction in vulnerable to
residential areas are not reserve forests might deforestation
vulnerable to landslides. lead to a loss of due to
biodiversity in landslides and
Gairsain. floods.
Way Forward:
Identification of disaster-prone areas in Gairsain would provide the knowledge of vulnerable
areas which are riskier for further development. It would help us to plan strategically for
provision of counter measures.
11.7 Economy
Major market of More than half of the There is adequate There is a lack
Gairsain block is present population is engaged availability of of employment.
in the central area of in subsistence educated workforce opportunities.
Gairsain Nagar agriculture rather to facilitate a shift to
Panchayat. than cultivating for urban economy in
Majority of people are trade and commerce. Gairsain.
involved in business
activities.
Way Forward:
Cultivators can be incentivized for practicing farming for commercial purposes. It would act
as another employment opportunity for the residents.
45
WARD 1
1. INTRODUCTION TO STUDY AREA
The study area Ward 1lies in the northern part of Gairsain which connects Tal Gaon village to
Rikholi and Gwar. It has an area of 211.234 Sq. km and a population of 1735 people in total.
The total density of the area is less because of the coverage of more than 40% forest area and
all due to the hilly terrain.
Ward 1 has gone through a lot of changes in the past two decades in terms of population and
forest cover. The Land use and land cover if the area has been shown in the map above clearly
showing the built-up area of not more than 10% of the whole study area hence the low
population density. Ward 1 is made up of several villages: (1) Saliyana, (2) Koliyana Laga
Dhargair, (3) Gwar, (4) Kundeli Laga Saliyana, and also small parts of: (5) Jaintoli & (6) Gair.
1.2 Methodology
47
2.LULC DISTRIBUTION
Map 2.1 Land use Map

Ward 1 covers an area of 211.2 hectares, which makes it the largest ward by size in Gairsain
Nagar Panchayat. Although, it is sparsely populated & has less built-up density.
In conclusion, the planning area is covered by a larger share of the forest while, ward 1 has a
greater share of Vacant and agricultural land uses in comparison.
Land Use Ward 1 Planning Area

Forest Land 42% (87.4 ha) 65%
Agricultural Land 39% (83.1 ha) 22%
Residential Land 11% (23.4 ha) 7%
Vacant Land 7% (15.3 ha) 1%
River <1% 4%
Others 1% (1.15 ha) 1%
Table. 2.1
48
2.2. Elevation
Almost 60% of ward lies below the elevation of 1700m while the remaining 40% has an
elevation ranging from 1700m-2064m.
Map 2.2.1 Elevation map Graph 2.2.1
2.3. Slope
Gairsain Ward 1 has an unusually gentle topography compared to the other areas of equivalent
altitude in the Garhwal region. The slope of the land in the lower regions or 'khet' is around 30
degrees while along the higher slopes, it is around 40 degrees.
Around 77% of Ward 1 Area has a very gentle slope (<=30̊), 21% has a slope between 30̊ - 45̊
& 2% area has slope above 45̊. In conclusion, by just taking in consideration the slope of the
land, almost 88% of the Ward 1 land is developable.
Map 2.2.1 Slope map
49
2.4 Aspect
Aspect influences the placement of structures, considering factors such as sunlight exposure,
wind patterns, and potential views. Understanding the aspect of slopes is essential for grading
and earthwork planning. It helps determine where cut and fill operations are necessary,
optimizing the balance of earthwork and minimizing soil disturbance. This is crucial for both
stability and environmental conservation. In Hilly areas, we tend to avoid building new
residential areas in the southward aspect as it minimizes the sunlight exposure.
Map 2.2.2 Aspect map
50
3.DEMOGRAPHY:
Population: The total population of Ward 1 is 1735.
Sex Ratio: The sex ratio in Ward 1 is 1061 females per 1000 males. This is significantly higher
than the national average of 966 females per 1000 males. This indicates a female-skewed
population in Ward 1, which is uncommon in India.
Literacy Rate: The literacy rate in Ward 1 is 87.7%, which is higher than the national average
of 77.3%. This suggests a relatively high level of education and development in the area.
3.1 Economic Profile:

The economic Profile of an area gives us an overall view of the income health and types of
occupation they are engaged in. According to the ward1 socio-economic profile and survey it
has been observed that the majority of the agricultural workers work for there own and family
needs because of the land constraints and also the lack of the transport facilities to export there
produce.
Crops Grown Production per ha.

Finger Millet 10-12 Q/ha
Barnyard Millet 10-12 Q/ha
Wheat 35-40 Q/ha
Rice(irrigated) 35-40 Q/ha
Amarnath Millet 12-15 Q/ha
Black gram split 08-10 Q/ha
Masoor dal 12-15 Q/ha
Barley 25-30 Q/ha
Graph 3.1.1 Graph 3.1.2 Table 3.1.1
4. SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE:
The social infrastructure consists of a range of services that are essential for good quality of
living in the area. These include health-care facilities, education facilities, socio-cultural
facilities, community facilities, recreational facilities, etc. Planning for these facilities is
majorly done based on the population of the area, as well as equitable distribution while at
different hierarchy (District level, city level, community level, neighbourhood level, etc.).
These social infrastructure facilities are provided by a wide range of service/facility
stakeholders including both government and private sector. The identified social infrastructure
in ward 1 has been marked in the map given below. These facilities include Schools (Primary,
Junior High), colleges and universities, Gas station and others.
51
Map 4.1 Social Infrastructure
4.1. Educational Facilities

There are 4 Schools within the boundary of ward 1 from primary to senior secondary which
are privately owned schools serving its population. There is only one college by the name of
Government Polytechnic College in the area along with Navodaya Vidyalaya which is under
construction at this point near the Saliyana village.
fig 4.1.1 Govt. Polytechnic College Fig 4.1.2. Navodaya Vidyalaya
4.2 Health Care

The health care facilities in ward 1 are poor as there are no hospitals or clinics present within
the boundary of the area but are at a distance of 2.5-3 km distance in ward 2, 3 and 5 km from
the boundary. The medical stores present in the area do not have enough supplies and the people
prefer to take medical help from hospitals in Dehradun, Nainital etc. because of poor medical
infrastructure in Gairsain.
4.3 Recreational Facilities
52
Ward 1 particularly is covered with more than 40% forest with negligible open spaces for
recreational activities and sports facilities are nil. There are no religious places within ward 1
but are 5-7 minutes away from the ward boundary. A HP Gas service station is present near
Saliyana village which provides gas cylinders to all the wards.
Fig 4.3.1 Police thana, Gairsain
5.PROPOSAL
5.1 Hemp for a Healthy Planet: Invest in a Sustainable Future with This
Plantation Proposal
What is Hemp?
Industrial hemp belongs to the species Cannabis Sativa, but unlike its psychoactive
counterpart, marijuana, its THC content is negligible, typically below 0.3%. There are several
varieties of this species, each with its own characteristics and suitable for specific uses. Some
prominent varieties include:
• Bast Fiber Varieties: These varieties are cultivated
primarily for their strong fibers, ideal for textiles, paper,
and construction materials.
• Seed Varieties: These varieties are grown for their
nutrient-rich seeds, used in food, beverages, and
cosmetics.
• Dual-Purpose Varieties: These varieties offer a balance Fig. 1.1 Plantation of
of fiber and seed production, catering to farmers seeking Hemp in Gairsain
diverse market opportunities.
Hemp is grown in temperate regions as an annual plant grown from seed and can reach a
height of up to 5 meters (16 feet). The crop grows best in sandy loam soils with good
drainage and requires an average monthly rainfall of at least 65 mm (2.5 inches) throughout
the growing season. Fiber crops are planted densely and produce trees that average 2 to 3
meters (6 to 10 feet) tall and have virtually no branching. Plants grown for oilseeds are grown
farther apart, are shorter and have many branches. In fiber production, maximum yield and
quality are achieved by harvesting immediately after the plant matures, as indicated by full
flowers and free pollen release from the male plant. Although sometimes pulled by hand, the
plant is usually cut about 2.5 cm (1 inch) above the ground. The fiber is obtained by
53
subjecting the stem to a series of steps, including soaking, drying, and grinding, as well as a
vibrating process to complete the separation of the wood, releasing the long and fairly
straight fibers or lines.
Why Hemp?
Rising from the shadows of misconception, industrial hemp is emerging as a potent force in
the global economy. This versatile plant, distinct from its psychoactive cousin marijuana,
boasts a diverse array of applications, promising a future woven with sustainability, economic
growth, and environmental responsibility.
Industrial hemp's strength lies in its immense versatility. From the sturdy fibers spun into
clothing and construction materials to the nutrient-rich seeds used in food and cosmetics, the
plant offers a plethora of opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors. Here's a glimpse into
its diverse business potential:
• Textiles: Hemp fibers are renowned for their strength, durability, and natural wrinkle-
resistance, making them ideal for garments, footwear, and even home textiles. This
sector offers a sustainable alternative to traditional cotton and synthetic fabrics,
catering to the growing eco-conscious consumer base.
• Food and Beverages: Hemp seeds are a nutritional powerhouse, rich in
protein, essential fats, and fiber. They can be consumed whole, ground into
flour, pressed into oil, or incorporated into various food products like
cereals, snacks, and beverages. This segment caters to health-conscious
individuals seeking natural and nutritious alternatives.
• Construction Materials: Hempcrete, a bio composite made from hemp fibers and lime,
offers superior insulation, fire resistance, and breathability compared to traditional
concrete. This eco-friendly material presents a lucrative niche for construction
companies seeking sustainable solutions.
• Paper and Pulp: Hemp pulp produces strong, durable paper with a lower
environmental footprint than wood-based paper. This sector holds potential for
publishers, packaging companies, and other paper-intensive industries.
• Personal Care Products: Hemp seed oil, rich in moisturizing and anti-inflammatory
properties, is increasingly used in cosmetics, soaps, and lotions. This segment caters
to the growing market for natural and organic personal care products.
• Biofuels: Hemp can be converted into biodiesel, a renewable and
sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. This emerging sector presents
opportunities for energy companies and farmers seeking to enter the
biofuel market.
Why is Gairsain ideal for hemp?
• Diverse Climate: From the temperate valleys to the alpine meadows, Gairsain offers
suitable microclimates for different hemp varieties. This allows for year-round
cultivation and optimal yields.
• Fertile Soil: The region's rich and well-drained soil, enriched by glacial meltwater and
alluvial deposits, provides a healthy foundation for hemp growth.
• Water Availability: With abundant rivers and streams flowing through the district,
Gairsain has ample water resources to support irrigation needs.
54
• Existing Agricultural Expertise: The region boasts a strong tradition of agriculture,
with skilled farmers well-versed in land management and crop cultivation. This
knowledge base can be readily adapted to hemp farming.
5.1.2. Potential Challenges and Solutions

Despite its advantages, hemp cultivation in Gairsain faces certain challenges:
• Limited Awareness: Misconceptions surrounding hemp can hinder farmer adoption.
Educational programs and awareness campaigns are crucial to dispel myths and
promote its benefits.
• Processing Infrastructure: Lack of readily available processing facilities for hemp
fiber and seeds can pose logistical and economic hurdles. Establishing local
processing units is essential for value creation and market access.
• Regulatory Framework: While Uttarakhand has legalized hemp cultivation,
navigating the complex regulations and obtaining licenses can be daunting for
farmers. Streamlining bureaucratic processes and providing clear guidance are crucial
to encourage participation.
• Market Access: Connecting farmers to buyers and establishing stable market channels
requires dedicated efforts. Building partnerships with local and national businesses, as
well as exploring export opportunities, can ensure market viability.
5.1.3. Potential Impact of Hemp in Gairsain

Successful hemp cultivation in Gairsain can bring about a multitude of positive changes:
• Economic Growth: Hemp cultivation creates new jobs in farming, processing, and
manufacturing, boosting the local economy and providing sustainable livelihoods.
• Environmental Sustainability: Hemp's low water and land requirements, coupled with
its ability to improve soil health and sequester carbon, contribute to environmental
conservation and climate change mitigation.
• Rural Development: Hemp farming revitalizes rural communities, leading to
improved infrastructure, increased access to education and healthcare, and overall
social well-being.
• Product Innovation: Hemp's diverse applications stimulate innovation in various
sectors, from eco-friendly textiles and construction materials to nutritious food
products and biofuels.
5.1.4. Conclusion
Industrial hemp cultivation in Chamoli holds great promise for the future of the region. By
addressing challenges through a collaborative approach and leveraging available resources,
Chamoli can become a leading center for sustainable hemp production in India. This green
revolution has the potential to transform not only the economic landscape but also the social
and environmental fabric of the community, paving the way for a greener and more
prosperous Chamoli.
The success of hemp in Chamoli requires a multi-pronged approach that includes continuous
research, infrastructure development, market linkages and community engagement. By
55
nurturing this green gold, Chamoli's future can be woven with threads of sustainability,
resilience, and prosperity.
5.2. Proposal for a Malta Orange-Based Agro-Processing Chain

5.2.1. Introduction
Gairsain presents an exciting opportunity for developing a sustainable agro-processing chain
centered around the region's renowned Maltese oranges. This report outlines a proposal for
such a chain, highlighting its potential benefits for local communities, the economy, and the
environment.
5.2.2. Malta Orange: an important but underdeveloped cash crop
Malta orange (Citrus sinensis) is an important cash crop in the mountain state of Uttarakhand.
Gairsain boasts ideal climatic conditions for growing Malta oranges, renowned for their
unique flavor and high vitamin C content. They are grown largely on family farms at
elevations between 900 and 2200 metres and are harvested in November and December. The
crop is mainly marketed as a substitute for mousambi (sweet lime) (Citrus limetta) and has
not been able to create its own identity in the market. Malta oranges face strong competition
from other citrus fruits like oranges produced in western India. Their sour taste and thick skin
reduce their attraction to consumers and their potential for commercialization as fresh fruit.
Currently, most oranges are sold fresh, limiting their shelf life and market reach. An agro-
processing chain would unlock their full potential, creating value and generating income.
5.2.3. Proposed Agro-Processing Chain

Stage 1: Collection and Sorting: Establish collection centers for farmers, ensuring fair
prices and quality control. Sort oranges based on size and ripeness for optimal processing.
Stage 2: Processing Options:
Juice Production: Manufacture high-quality, organic orange juice for local consumption and
regional markets. Explore cold-pressed juice and pulp utilization for further value creation.
Marmalade and Jam Production: Create artisanal marmalades and jams, leveraging the
unique flavor profile of Gairsain's oranges.
Oil Extraction: Extract essential oils for use in cosmetics, aromatherapy, and food
flavoring.
Dried Fruit and Peels: Produce dried orange slices and candied peels as healthy snacks and
ingredients for baking and confectionery.
Stage 3: Packaging and Branding: Develop attractive, eco-friendly packaging that
highlights the local origin and organic nature of the products. Craft a distinct brand identity
for Gairsain oranges and its processed products.
Stage 4: Marketing and Distribution: Establish partnerships with local retailers, tourist
shops, and online platforms to ensure wider market reach. Explore export potential for niche
markets seeking high-quality, organic products.
5.2.4. Benefits of the Agro-Processing Chain

Increased Income for Farmers: Fair prices, value addition, and reduced post-harvest losses
will improve farmer incomes and livelihoods.
Job Creation: The chain will generate employment opportunities in collection, processing,
packaging, and marketing sectors.
Economic Diversification: Dependence on fresh fruit sales will be reduced, mitigating risks
and promoting a more resilient local economy.
Value Creation: Processing will add significant value to the oranges, boosting overall
economic output and regional development.
56
Sustainable Practices: Organic farming practices, waste minimization, and energy-efficient
processes will contribute to environmental sustainability.
Brand Building: Gairsain oranges can become a recognized brand, promoting tourism and
attracting investment to the region.
5.2.5. Challenges and Considerations

Initial Investment: Setting up the processing infrastructure and brand development will
require initial investment, potentially requiring financial support from government or private
entities.
Training and Skill Development: Farmers and workers may need training in organic
farming, processing techniques, and packaging to meet quality standards.
Market Access and Competition: Effective marketing strategies and partnerships are crucial
to compete in wider markets and ensure product visibility.
Environmental Impact: Waste management and energy efficiency measures must be
prioritized to minimize environmental footprint.
5.2.6. Conclusion
Developing a Maltese orange-based agro-processing chain in Gairsain presents a promising
opportunity for economic growth, social upliftment, and environmental sustainability. By
addressing the challenges and capitalizing on the potential, this initiative can empower local
communities, strengthen the regional economy, and position Gairsain as a leader in
sustainable agro-processing.
By implementing this proposal with careful planning and community engagement, Gairsain
can transform its orange bounty into a sustainable source of prosperity for its people and the
environment.
5.3. Proposals for Biogas Plant (MSWM)

Biogas is one of the promising biofuels, which can be generated from biomass using the
anaerobic digestion (AD) process. AD is a biological process that uses microorganisms to
break down organic materials in the absence of oxygen to produce biogas and digestate.
AD-based reactors solve environmental concerns such as solid waste-related issues including
GHGs emissions, unsanitary conditions, and groundwater contamination due to leachate
formation. The digested slurry is an AD by-product that may be utilized as soil conditioners,
decreasing the need for chemical fertilizers.
Since no additional agricultural cultivation is essential, biogas produced from waste has no
detrimental effect on land utilization as compared to liquid biofuels. India has set up a target
of reducing GHGs emissions by 30%–35% by reducing fossil fuel dependency.
57
Figure5.3.1: Process of Biogas production; Source: Treehugger.
CSIR-IICT developed the novel Anaerobic Gas Lift Reactor (AGR) to generate biogas & bio
manure from biodegradable organic wastes. The AGR technology works on a high-rate bio-
methanation process suitable for operation in Indian conditions. The process is hygienic and
is devoid of odour and flies.
The biogas can be utilized for combined heat & power applications, while the bio manure
rich in nutrients can be applied in farms to increase the fertility of the soil for improved crop
yield. The AGR technology helps reduce GHGs (greenhouse gases) & avoids the diversion of
waste to landfills resulting in a cleaner environment.
5.3.1 Introduction
Keeping in line with the Vision & Objective of the
Gairsain LAP i.e., ‘Economic revitalization and
environmentally sustainable development of
Gairsain as a Capital city’, one of our primary
focuses should be on how we deal with the waste.
As an ecologically sensitive area with very limited
developable land, it is not environmentally
sustainable to just dump the garbage in the
landfills.
Fig 5.3.2: Gairsain Landfill, Ward 1;
Source: Author.
This is where a Biogas plant comes into play, not only
does it exponentially decrease the total quantity of waste in landfills but also provides us with
a steady source of income (or LPG) & manure for agricultural uses. The segregation of waste
58
at source has been mandated to channelize the waste to wealth by recovery, reuse & recycle
(SWM, 2016). The bio-degradable waste should be processed, treated & disposed of through
composting or bio-methanation within the premises as far as possible. Thus, we have
proposed a Bio-methanation plant for the Gairsain Planning Area.
5.3.2 Composition of Biogas

The quality of biogas depends mainly on the presence of methane in it. Good quality biogas
has high calorific value and burns in the air with a blue flame. This is due to the presence of a
high percentage of methane in it. The composition of methane will be decided by the type of
organic matter (animal waste, food, livestock feed, etc.) present in it.
Compound Formula Percentage

Methane CH4 50-80%
Carbon Dioxide CO2 15-50%
Nitrogen N2 0-10%
Hydrogen H2 0-1%
Hydrogen Sulphide H2S 0.0.5%
Table 8.1: Source: Li Y, Alaimo CP. Composition and Toxicity of Biogas, National Library of
Medicine.
5.3.3 Legislation in India regarding MSWM & Biogas Plants

i. SWM Rules 2016
ii. National Biogas & Manure Management Program (NBMMP)
iii. New National Biogas & organic Manure Programme (NNBOMP)
iv. Central Financial Assistance (CFA) for setting up Biogas Plants under the (BPGTP)
5.3.4 Finance
There are several state & central level subsidies/schemes for the setting up biogas plants
in India:
• Turn-key job fee linked with five years’ free maintenance warranty.
• Financial Support up to 50% of the applicable CFA, subject to sharing of 50% of the
cost of repair by the beneficiary concerned for the repair of old non-functional plants
of more than 5 years.
• Administrative charges to State Government Departments and agencies implementing
the program.
• The Central subsidy is given in fixed amounts for different categories of areas/ States/
Regions. It varies from Rs. 4000/- to Rs. 8000/- per plant for general category States
& Rs. 14,700/- per plant for Northeastern Regions States including Sikkim except
plain areas of Assam.
Source: Biogas Programme (Phase-I) for FY 2021-22 to 2025-26, Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy
59
5.3.5. Calculations for building a Biogas Plant in Gairsain:
Average waste generation in small towns: 200 gm per

person per day (CPHEEO, 2000)
Total waste generated in Gairsain: 200*9077= 1,815.4

kg per day
Total organic waste generated: 1,815.4 kg*60%=

1089.2 kg
Average biogas production from organic waste 120 to

140 m3/ton
There is Vacant land (Map 1.3) beside the landfill
area in ward 1 that can accommodate a 2500 sq. ft/
biogas plant, appropriate for a 1-2 tonne capacity
plant (Source: Indian Council for Agricultural
Research). Furthermore, the site is near the existing
landfill site, at a considerable distance from other
settlements, & also elevated from the river basin
Map 1.1: Map showing Location of Landfill & (reducing the chance of polluting the water source).
Proposed site for Biogas Plant; Source: Author.
Techno-Economics of Biogas Plant: Using AGR Technology

Quantity 1,089.2 Kg
Biogas Generation 152.5 m3/day
Plant Efficiency (85%) 130 m3/day
1 m3 of Biogas is equivalent to 0.40 kg of LPG
Total LPG Replacement 52 kg of LPG
Cost of 1 Kg of LPG (Commercial) Rs. 94
Revenue from the plant for a year Rs. 17,84,120/-
Operating cost of the plant per year Rs. 2,27,325/-
Net Revenue per year Rs. 15,56,795
Capital cost of the Plant Rs. 34,12,500/-
Simple Payback Period 2.19 Years
Table 5.3.5.1 & 5.3.5.2: Source: Dr. A. Gangagni Rao, CSIR-IICT, Hyderabad
Electricity Bio-CNG LPG

1m3 of Biogas 1.5 kWh 0.4 Kg 0.4 Kg
Rate of Sale Rs.8/kWh Rs.43/Kg Rs.86/Kg
Value Rs 12 Rs 17 Rs 34
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5.3.6 What are the major challenges for the commercialization & dissemination
of Biogas technology?
• Financial barriers: High initial investment cost, Lack of financing mechanism &
Longer ROIs.
• Market: Competition from other fuels & technologies/uses
• Technical, Infrastructural & Institutional: Poor quality of feedstock; Lack of waste
storage & treatment, Lack of co-ordination between central & state governments, low
private player involvement facilities, limited urban municipal capabilities.
• Information: Lack of awareness about the policies, technologies & its benefits
5.3.7 Proposed solutions to overcome the barriers.
• Conducting more awareness programs
• Implementing biogas plants to replace LPG consumption rather than electricity
generation makes the technology remunerative.
• No misuse of organic wastes for other purposes
• Proper financing mechanism initiative by the government by providing subsidies &
encouraging PPP projects.
5.3.8 Bibliography
i. https://www.statista.com/statistics/1009110/india-msw-generation-amount/
ii. D. Saxena, K.L., & R. Sewak. "Livestock waste & its impact on human health."
International Journal of AgriculturalSciences6.7(2016):1084-1099.
iii. CPCB, 2013. Consolidated Annual Review Report on Implementation of Municipal
Solid Wastes (Management & Handling Rules),2000. In: Board, C.P.C.(Ed.), Ministry
of Environment Forests & Climate Change, New Delhi.
iv. CSO, 2014.EnergyStatistics. In: Office, C.S. (Ed.), Ministry of Statistics &
Programme Implementation, New Delhi.
61
WARD 2
1 INTRODUCTION
Ward 2 is in the north-eastern edge of Gairsain. On its west lies Ward 1 and Ward 3 is towards
the south. It is bounded by dense forest cover on the northern and eastern parts. The ward
consists of Gair and Rithiya villages and parts of Koliyana Laga Dhargair, Gwar, Pitoli Gwar,
Jaintoli and Sinatoli. A significant portion of the residents here are cultivators followed by shop
and reasturnat owners. A ribbon development along the N.H. 109 over the years. People
residing in the upper slopes have abandoned their homes and have settled along the highway.
This has been typical of many rural areas of Uttarakhand. There is a dense settlement in the
south-western pocket bordering ward 3, which falls in the Gairsain Market. Another large
habitation is near the bridge over the Ramganga River. Taking into consideration the fragile
ecology and lack of employement opportunities, the aim has been kept as follows-
Aim: Preparing a Local Area Plan with a focus on environmentally sustainable development
for the ward with a focus on economic growth.
Fig. 2.1 Methodology
1.1 Study Area Profile

• Area: 135.92 ha.
• Population: 3007 (2011 Census)
• Gross Density: 22.12 PPH
• Net Density: 397.22 PPH
63
Map. 1.1 Study Area Map
2. LULC
Ward 2 of Gairsain is approximately of 135.92 hectare with an extensive forest area occupying
64.69% with the settlement area accounting up to only 5.8% as of 2023. The uncovered soil of
4.0% has been identified as a utilization for connectivity in the remote areas for agricultural
practices.
The area cover has observed a sign of deforestation with the percentage of forest area
decreasing from 68.01% in 2013 to 64.96% in 2023.
With an increase of settlement area from 3.1% to 5.8%, a growth in the percentage of
agricultural land has also been observed from 18.2% in 2013 to 20.87% in 2023.
Ward 2 consists of a total of 270 residential, 41 mixed use, 1 commercial and 1 public semi-
public buildings.
64
Map of ward 2 as of 2013 Map of ward 2 as of 2023 Building use map of ward 2
NDVI or Normalized Difference Vegetation Index is a remote sensing to determine the amount and
health of vegetation in an area.
• The total area with the lowest vegetation ranging from 0.1 to 0.2 decreased from 0.18 sq.km to
0.0.7 sq.km.
• Although it has widely scattered across the area. This can be the ramification of deforestation
of the 4% decrease in forest cover.
MNDWI or Modified Normalized Difference Water Index is a remote sensing to determine the amount
of water content in the surface area.
• The total area with the lowest water content ranging from -2 to -1 increased from 0.1 sq.km.
• The decreased water content is mainly located in the forest cover area.
LST or Land Surface Temperature is a remote sensing to determine the ground surface temperature.
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The area with a surface temperature ranging from 12°C to 15°C has increased by 0.1sq.km
While the other areas have experienced little to no change in temperature.
Deforestation has been observed the land cover of Gairsain ward 2, resulting in the health of
vegetation to deteriorate along with the water content in vegetation.
Evidently this result has led to an increase in the land surface temperature over the interval of 10 years.
3.DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE
Table 3.1 Decadal Change in Population and Growth Rate

As can be seen from fig. 3.2, there has been significant change in the population of the ward area from
1817 in 1991 to 3007 in 2011. This is mostly due to natural increase, as in-migration to the area has
been negligible or negative from the discussions with local government sources.
(a) (b)
(c)
Table 3.2 Comparison of Demographic Variables across the three decades
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The sex ratio of the ward is less in comparison to the composite sex ratio of the villages lying within
the Gairsain Nagar Panchayat, Gairsain Tehsil, Chamoli District, Uttarakhand and the national sex ratio.
This may reflect the social backwardness prevalent in the area. While the sex ratio has considerably
increased from 681 in 1991 to 876 in 2001, it has remained the same in 2011, as can be seen in Table
3.1. Awareness and incentives to increase the sex ratio are the need of the hour. The child population
below 7 years has been at a decreasing trend. The literacy rate has shown a positive increase, registering
a significant increase from 65.02% in 2001 to 78.72% in 2011. This shows Sarba Siksha Abhiyan has
been successful in this area. It is difficult to comment on the overall education scenario due to lack of
data on dropout rates. In the section on Socio-Economic Profile, we can see there is not a single post-
graduate female recorded in our primary survey. It can be also see that the female share of Graduates is
less, while almost equal share of male and female can be seen for Primary, Secondary and Higher
Secondary qualifications. This may be due to females not opting for higher education. Therefore,
targeted schemes for enrolling females in UG and PG programmes in the area must be rolled out. A
skilled workforce is a necessity to promote a sustainable economic growth of the Summer Capital of
Uttarakhand.
4 HOUSING AND PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE

4.1 Building Height and Building Use
Map 4.1.1- Building Height
Map 4.1.2- Building use
We can observe there is only one G+2 and very few commercial buildings.
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4.2 Water supply and electricity
Map 4.2.1 WATER SUPPLY GRAPHS 4.2.1 Water supply, Frequency

of water supply
The average electricity bill is RS.806/- Per month.
The average Water bill is RS.806/- Per month.
In the domain of water supply within our study area, it's notable that natural water streams and
two gadheras serve as the primary sources of water. Complementing this natural supply, our
locality features two constructed tanks, with capacities of 7kl and 366 kl respectively, further
contributing to the water availability.
Diving into the water usage patterns, a distinct dichotomy emerges among residents.
Approximately 10.2 percent of the population relies on the natural water streams, drawing
water directly for various purposes. This method, though rooted in tradition, raises concerns
about sustainable water use and environmental impact. In contrast, a significant majority,
totaling 82 percent of residents, benefit from household-level connections for their water needs.
This reflects a more modern and structured approach to water distribution, potentially
mitigating some of the challenges associated with direct stream utilization.
Examining the frequency of water access in our ward, encouragingly, 58.8 percent of residents
report receiving water twice a day. This suggests a commendable effort in maintaining a
consistent and reliable water supply, contributing positively to the daily lives of the residents.
However, it is essential to continuously monitor and improve water infrastructure to ensure
equitable and sustainable access for all residents in the long run.
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4.3 SWM (Solid Waste Management)
Map 4.3.1 SWM

Graphs 4.3.1 SWM, Frequency
of solid waste collection
Examining the realm of solid waste management, when we delve into the primary survey
findings, it becomes evident that 10.2% of the residents resort to burning their waste. This
practice gives rise to a myriad of environmental issues that warrant serious consideration.
A concerning 6.12 percent of the respondents openly admit to disposing of their waste by the
natural stream. Such a haphazard disposal method not only poses a threat to the environment
but also raises questions about sustainable waste management practices.
Adding another layer to the issue, it's worth noting that solid waste is diligently collected daily
from the common collection point. However, the inner settlements face a unique challenge —
the absence of community bins or designated collection points. As a result, residents in these
areas find themselves compelled to either burn or dispose of their waste in an unregulated
manner. This underscores the pressing need for a more comprehensive and accessible waste
management infrastructure within these inner settlements.
Looking into sanitation, 98 percent of residents have individual Household toilets.
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5 SOCIO-ECONOMIC PROFILES
5.1 Economic Profile
The economic profile of an area provides a comprehensive snapshot of its economic health and
performance. It includes a range of indicators that offer insights into the overall economic well-
being, development, and potential challenges of a region.
From the primary survey conducted in our ward,
it was found that 26% of the working population
were cultivators, 4% were agricultural labourers
and the rest 70% fell under the category of other
workers which was further classified as shown
in Figure 1. Under other workers, the maximum
were shop and restaurant owners followed by
government workers while the others were
employed as engineers, postmen or working in
healthcare, education or the private sector.
In 1991, 94% of the total workers were main Figure 5.1: Graph of the Occupation Profile of Ward 2
workers which increased to 97% in 2011(refer
Figure 6.1), following an increasing trend while the percentage of marginal workers declined.
Figure 6.2 compares the census classification of workers as per the 1991, 2001 and 2011 census
and also the primary survey conducted in 2023. There was a gradual decrease observed in the
number of cultivators and household industry workers contrary to the increased number of
agricultural labourers and other workers. This increase is indicative of the in-migration to this
80%
70%
2011
60%
50%
2001 40%
30%
20%
1991
10%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% 120% 0%

1991 2001 2011 2023
Marginal Main CL AL HH OT
Figure 5.1.2: Classification Main and Marginal Workers Figure 5.1.3: Decadal Classification of Workers
area.
These were some of the key takeaways from the primary survey were as follows:
• The average income range in Ward 2 is 25-50k.
• 54.05% respondents own and cultivate their own agricultural land.
• 6.9% respondents are dependent on agriculture for their living.
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• 40% respondents were willing to start their own household industry like making jams
or pickles if provided with government with government.
5.2 Social Infrastructure and Profile

Social infrastructure refers to the foundational elements in a society that support and enhance
the quality of life for its residents. Unlike physical infrastructure, which includes tangible assets
like roads, bridges, and utilities, social infrastructure is more intangible and involves the
institutions, facilities, and systems that contribute to the well-being, social cohesion, and
overall development of a community. Social infrastructure is essential for fostering a healthy,
educated, and engaged population.
Figure 4 shows the facilities in and near Ward 2 which include a school, temple, bacnk and
community health centre.
Figure 5.2.1: CHC, Gairsain
Figure 5.2.2: Adarsh Public

School
Figure 5.2.3: Temple

Map 5.2.1: Spatial Location of Amenities
URDPFI suggests a 300-800m walkability buffer for local facilities and amenities to
promote pedestrianisation. The maps below represent the same along with the
percentage of settlements covered under it:
Map 5.2.2: Population Coverage of

School
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The literacy rate according to the census of India has been showing an increasing trend:
63.13% in 1991, 75.4% in 2001 and 78.72% in 2011 which shows that there is a
growing importance being given to education. Figure 6.10 shows the distribution of
educational qualification of primary survey respondents. It is seen that almost half are
secondary or higher secondary graduates while less than 5% are illiterates. As shown
in Figure 13, almost equal number of men and women have studied till primary school
after which women’s Map 5.2.3: Population Coverage of Map 5.2.4: Population Coverage
educational qualification CHC, Gairsain Tehsil SBI, Gairsain Branch
sees a downward trend
which might be rooted in the mindset of favouring and prioritising providing
opportunities to the male child. Another interesting thing to note is that while all the
postgraduates were men, all the illiterates were also men. Illiterate
2011 5% Primary
12%
16%
Secondary
2001 19%
Higher
Secondary
23%
1991 Graduate
23%
Postgraduate
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Figure 5.2.4: Literacy Rate According Figure 5.2.5: Level of Educational Qualification
to Census
Postgraduate
Graduate
Higher Secondary
Secondary
Figure 5.2.6:
Primary Gender
Illiterate Disaggregated
Educational
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Qualification
Male Female
6 ENVIRONMENT AND DISASTER MANAGEMENT

Ward 2 has the highest elevation among the other Gairsain Nagar Panchayat Wards. It contains
soil group of Garhwal, Almora and Newer Alluvial.
Its south-eastern region is affected by soil erosion which makes if more susceptible to landslide.
The ward does not suffer from flood.
It also has a rich forest covered land.
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It was also observed that several households surveyed drink the water coming from the streams.
It has an advantage of an untouched environment which needs to be protected and conserved.
So, emphasis on environment planning is necessary.
6.1 Terrain Analysis
Map 6.1.1. Terrain Analysis Map of GNP Ward 2
Most of the area has a range of slope angle of 25 to 45Degree. of the area also has 10 to 25
Degree of slope. Therefore, the area is identified as a mountainous terrain.
6.2 Soil Erosion Risk Assessment

Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) Methods used to prepare the Soil Erosion
Analysis Map.
The factors include:
R-Factor (Rainfall Erosivity)
K-Factor (Erodibility)
LS-Factor (Slope Length and Steepness)
C-Factor (Cover and Management)
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P-Factor (Conservation Practice)
Then the final Soil Loss Equation
A = R x K x LS x C x P
Map 6.2.1. Soil Erosion Analysis Map of GNP Ward 2
It's south-eastern region and central south region suffers from soil erosion. Rehabilitation is
required to prevent landslides and other hazards.
6.3 Landslide Susceptibility

Landslide Susceptibility Map is made using Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) Method.
The variables and its weightage calculated are:
Variables Weightage
Slope 26.6
Soil Erosion 21.1
Lithology 16.6
Distance to Stream 14.6
Aspect 5.5
Curvature 5.5
Land use 5.1
Drainage Density 5
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Map 6.3.1. Landslide Susceptibility Map of GNP Ward 2
Only 5.85% of the total area in the ward is in high to Very high risk. The total area has an
average of low to moderate landslide risk.
7.SWOC ANALYSIS
7.1Strengths:
The ward exhibits commendable strengths in various aspects. Firstly, it boasts a robust literacy
rate, with a majority of its residents holding bachelor's degrees. This educational attainment
reflects a well-educated populace. a significant portion of the population resides within a
walkable distance of primary schools, facilitating easy access to education. Furthermore, the
ward enjoys ample water supply, contributing to the overall well-being of the community.
Moreover, the absence of open defecation signifies a hygienic and well-maintained
environment.
7.2. Weaknesses:
Despite its strengths, the ward faces certain weaknesses that demand attention. Of particular
concern is the declining trend in the Worker Population Ratio, suggesting potential challenges
in employment opportunities. The geographical structure of the ward poses a risk of landslides,
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emphasizing the need for proactive measures to address this threat. Another notable weakness
is the scarcity of developable land, primarily due to extensive forest coverage, posing
limitations on potential expansion and development.
7.3. Opportunities:
The ward presents promising opportunities for growth and enhancement. A considerable
percentage of residents express a willingness to initiate household industries, indicating
entrepreneurial potential that could be harnessed with government support. Additionally, the
existence of a community space with a temple in the south-west corner offers an opportunity
for transformation into a vibrant node, fostering community engagement. The agro-forest
landscape within the ward holds potential for tourism development, creating opportunities for
economic growth.
7.4. Challenges:
To leverage the opportunities effectively, the ward must navigate several challenges. Foremost
among these challenges is the imperative to ensure that future development initiatives do not
compromise the existing forest cover and the delicate ecological balance. Generating livelihood
opportunities for residents is a crucial challenge that requires strategic interventions. Enhancing
pedestrian connectivity through the development of trails is essential for fostering community
cohesion and accessibility. Lastly, efforts must be directed towards ensuring that all residents
have walkable access to healthcare facilities, addressing a fundamental challenge in healthcare
accessibility.
8 PROPOSALS
8.1 Proposed Land use and Land Suitability Analysis
The weighted overlay suitability analysis conducted for developable land employed a method based on
a similar study in Hamirpur in Himachal Pradesh, assigning specific weightages to key factors
influencing land suitability. Slope, deemed crucial, received the highest weightage at 40%, reflecting
the significance of terrain steepness in determining suitability. Aspect, accounting for 25%, considered
the orientation of slopes concerning sunlight and wind exposure. Vegetation density, weighted at 20%,
played a role in assessing ecological impact, while hillshade, weighted at 15%, factored in the influence
of shading on land suitability.
Additionally, buffer zones based on stream orders from the Ramganga River were incorporated to
address environmental considerations. Buffer distances of 75m for 3rd order streams, 50m for 2nd order
streams, and 35m for 1st order streams were applied. These buffers aimed to protect water resources
and associated ecosystems.
The overall analysis revealed that 4.19% of the total area, or 5.68 hectares, is highly suitable for
development. Moderately suitable land covers 10.34%, equivalent to 14.04 hectares, while less suitable
land accounts for 20.1% (27.35 hectares). The least suitable land category comprises the largest portion
at 65.35%, representing 88.85 hectares. In total, the analysis covered 135.92 hectares, providing a
comprehensive overview of the land's suitability for development in the hilly area, considering diverse
and weighted factors along with stream order-based buffers.
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Map8.1.1 Development Land Suitability
The proposed land use has been decided based on situating commercial and residential development in
the identified highly suitable areas and designating the stream buffers as ‘No Development Zone’. The
table below gives the breakup of the proposed land use zones.
Map 8.1.2 Proposed Land use Zone
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8.2 Trail Development
The purpose of trail development is to design with the minimization of human disturbance and
impacts on wildlife, plants and soil while improving the livability of the area. Developing a
sustainable trail system is crucial for several reasons, encompassing environmental, social, and
economic considerations. From an environmental perspective, a well-planned and managed
trail system minimizes ecological impact, preserving biodiversity and protecting natural
habitats. Sustainable trails employ erosion control measures, avoiding soil degradation and
water pollution, while minimizing disturbance to wildlife. Socially, such systems provide
recreational opportunities, promoting physical well-being and mental health for communities.
Accessible trails also encourage outdoor education and foster a connection between people and
nature. Economically, a sustainable trail network can stimulate tourism, attracting visitors and
generating revenue for local businesses. Additionally, by incorporating sustainable practices in
trail construction and maintenance, long-term costs can be reduced, ensuring the ongoing
viability of the trail system. Overall, the development of a sustainable trail system is essential
for achieving a harmonious balance between environmental conservation, community well-
being, and economic vitality.
Some of the main priorities are:
• Correcting truly unsafe situations. • Correcting problems that cause significant trail damage,
such as erosion. • Restoring the trail to the planned design standard.
Existing trail ranges from 1 to 2 meters approximately. The total trail is of 9.6 km in length.
A. Connectivity - Develop a thoroughly connected trail system to improve accessibility
especially for the farmers and the chances for and increased tourist potential.
A1. Climbing Causeways – To bridge between an uneven surface and navigate the steep slope.
B. Safety - Ensure a safe trail by providing soil stabilizers or erosion control blankets and
matting to the area within the proximity of landslides and soil erosions.
B. Water Bar – it divides the trail into narrow watersheds with undulating crests and dips like
a gentle roller coaster.
C. Sustainability - Develop a sustainable trail system by constructing a trail tread to avoid or
limit access to critical habitat patches avoid unwanted trampling over the flora of the region.
D. Navigation – Trailhead sign must be placed for visitors and guests that promotes effortless
navigation of the trail system.
Check dams.
Check dams are compact, low constructions erected in gullies or channels with the aim of
impeding further deepening. These diminutive dams serve to decelerate the flow of water,
diminishing the erosive force of runoff. Additionally, they facilitate the deposition of eroded
materials, contributing to the enhanced stabilization of the gullies. Check dams are proposed
in our ward for the soil erosion mitigation.
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Vegetative Cover: Planting vegetation along the gully's edges to stabilize soil and reduce water
runoff, preventing further erosion. The above schematic drawing of two gullies with 24 check
dams and bamboo planted below the check dams for stabilization.
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8.3 Watershed Management
A Check Dam Suitability analysis is made within the ward. Three Gully Plugs locations are
proposed using this.
Map 8.3.1. Check Dam Suitability Map of GNP Ward 2

GULLY PLUGS:
Gully Plugs are compact, low constructions erected in gullies or channels.
These diminutive dams serve to decelerate the flow of water, diminishing
the erosive force of runoff.
Fig 2. Proposed Gully Plugs Example
RIPARIAN BUFFER:
A no activity zone is to be maintained 15m from the stream to restore vegetative cover. Planting
vegetation along the gully's edges will stabilize soil and reduce water runoff, preventing further
erosion.
8.4 Strategy for Economic Development

In the quest for sustainable development and community empowerment, a well-conceived conceptual
framework has been delineated, pivoting on the promotion of Self Help Groups (SHGs). This
framework aspires to foster not only economic stability but also resilience within communities,
encapsulating a vision where individuals actively participate in shaping their own destinies. At the heart
of this initiative is the recognition of the power of collective action, as SHGs provide a platform for
shared decision-making and resource mobilization.
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Figure 8.4.1. Conceptual Framework
Figure 8.4.2.Verticals of Economic Development Strategy

Diversification of livelihood opportunities forms a cornerstone of this framework, with a strategic focus
on several promising sectors. Agro-Tourism emerges as a dynamic avenue, seamlessly intertwining
agriculture and tourism to create sustainable income streams. This not only addresses economic needs
but also facilitates cultural exchange, offering visitors an authentic experience of rural life.
Simultaneously, the framework promotes Sericulture, encouraging communities to engage in the
cultivation of silk-producing insects. With an eye on market trends, this initiative taps into the demand
for sustainable and locally sourced silk products, presenting a unique economic opportunity.
Horticultural products, cultivated with an emphasis on sustainable and biodiversity-friendly practices,
represent another facet of the framework. By connecting local producers with markets, this approach
not only ensures economic viability but also fosters environmentally conscious agricultural practices.
Furthermore, the framework advocates for the development of community-based solar energy projects,
aligning with global efforts to transition towards renewable energy sources. In doing so, communities
not only contribute to environmental preservation but also harness economic benefits through the sale
of surplus energy.
In essence, this conceptual framework goes beyond the conventional development paradigm by
empowering communities to be architects of their own prosperity. Through the cultivation of diverse
livelihood generators and the facilitation of collective initiatives, the framework envisions a future
where sustainability, resilience, and self-determination converge to create thriving communities.
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WARD 3
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Project title:
Local Area Plan, Ward 3, Gairsain, Uttarakhand
1.2 Aim:
Preparation of Local Area Plan for the development of Ward 3 of the Gairsain Nagar Panchayat.
1.3 Vision:
Development of Gairsain as a Capital City from Sustainable, Economic, Cultural, and
Environmental Perspectives.
1.4 Objective:
1. Enhance the quantity of life by providing adequate resources and amenities.
2. Sustainable Development through preservation of natural environment, sustainable
infrastructure, disaster preparedness and economic diversification
1.5 About the study area:
Map.1.1. Map of Ward 3, Gairsain Nagar Panchayat
1.5.1 Location:
Ward 3 of Gairsain Nagar Panchayat stands as a pivotal hub within the municipality,
strategically positioned at the central locus.
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Ward 3 is centrally located within the Gairsain Nagar Panchayat, serving as a geographic
nucleus for the surrounding areas. Its prime positioning contributes significantly to its
accessibility and importance within the municipal framework.
1.5.3 Educational Facilities:
The ward boasts a robust social infrastructure, housing several educational institutions. These
include schools catering to various age groups, fostering the intellectual growth of the residents,
and contributing to the overall development of the community.
1.5.4 Healthcare Facilities:
A notable aspect of Ward 3 is the presence of a hospital, ensuring the healthcare needs of the
residents are met efficiently. This healthcare facility plays a vital role in maintaining the well-
being of the community.
1.5.5 Presence of Market Area:
The ward features a market, acting as an economic epicenter for local trade and commerce.
This marketplace serves as a focal point for economic transactions and contributes to the
overall economic vitality of the ward.
1.5.6 Residential Landscape:
Predominantly residential in nature, Ward 3 accommodates a diverse range of housing
structures. The residential landscape is characterized by a mix of housing types, catering to
various socioeconomic strata and promoting a harmonious coexistence of the populace.
1.5.7 Government Buildings: Animal Husbandry Office:
Ward 3 houses government infrastructure, exemplified by the presence of the Animal
Husbandry Office. This governmental entity plays a crucial role in managing and regulating
animal-related activities, ensuring the welfare of livestock in the region.
1.5.8 Villages:
Ward 3 extends its influence over three villages, acting as an administrative and social nexus
for these rural settlements. The ward's reach into these villages further emphasizes its
significance in the regional context.
1.5.9 Conclusion:
In conclusion, Ward 3 of Gairsain Nagar Panchayat
stands as a multifaceted locality, seamlessly
integrating social, residential, and governmental
elements.
Fig 1.1. Focused Group Discussion
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2. LAND USE LAND COVER DISTRIBUTION
2.1 Existing Land Use Land Cover 2023
Map 1.2 Land use Land Cover (2023) map of Ward 3, Gairsain Nagar Panchayat
2.2 Land Use Land Cover 2013
Map, 1.3 Land use Land Cover (2013) map of Ward 3, Gairsain Nagar Panchayat
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Land Use Table
Type of Land Use 2013 2023
Total Area 48.8 ha 48.8 ha
Residential 8.19 ha (16.64%) 10.09 ha (20.65%)
Forest 14.09 ha (29.00%) 10.64 ha (21.70%)
Agriculture 24.94 ha (51.05%) 26.03 ha (53.29%)
Roads 0.85 ha (1.73%) 1.11 ha (2.42%)
Commercial 0.22 ha (0.46%) 0.22 ha (0.46%)
Educational 0.54 ha (1.12%) 0.72 ha (1.47%)
Table. 1.1 Land Use Table comparison of 2013 and 2023.
2.3 Land Use Analysis for Ward 3: 2013 and 2023

2.3.1 Residential Area:
In 2013, the residential area covered 8.19 hectares, and this has increased to 10.09 hectares in
2023.
The growth in residential land indicates a rise in population and urbanization trends.
2.3.2 Forest Land:
The forest area in 2013 was 14.09 hectares, which decreased to 10.64 hectares in 2023.
The reduction in forest land may raise environmental concerns, impacting local biodiversity
and ecosystem health.
2.3.4 Agricultural Land:
Agricultural land has experienced a modest increase from 24.94 hectares in 2013 to 26.03
hectares in 2023.
2.3.5 Road Infrastructure:
The area allocated to roads has expanded from 0.85 hectares in 2013 to 1.11 hectares in 2023.
This increase reflects a commitment to infrastructure development, indicating a response to the
growing needs of the community and potentially improving connectivity within Ward 3.
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2.3.6 Commercial Zone:
The commercial land area has remained constant at 0.22 hectares from 2013 to 2023.This
indicated the commercial development within the ward.
2.3.7 Educational Institutions:
Educational land use has seen a slight increase from 0.54 hectares in 2013 to 0.72 hectares in
2023.
The growth in educational land suggests a commitment to educational infrastructure and focus
on educational development.
2.4 Overall Implications:
• The increase in residential and road areas suggests a trend toward urbanization and
infrastructure development.
• The decrease in forest land raises environmental concerns and may require careful
monitoring to ensure sustainable development practices.
• The stability in commercial land indicates a consistent economic landscape.
• The growth in educational land reflects a commitment to educational infrastructure,
aligning with potential community development goals.
• Agricultural land increase, while modest, may indicate a focus on maintaining or
enhancing local food production capabilities.
2.5 Conclusion:
This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the changing land-use dynamics in Ward
3, offering insights into potential areas of concern and highlighting positive trends in
development.
3.DEMOGRAPHY
3.1 Population
Total Population of Ward 3 in 2011 is 980.
Expected Population of ward 3 in 2033 is 1452.
Growth Rate from 1991 to 2001 is 2.3% per year.
Population density of ward 3 is 20.8%.
Children population of age below 6 in 2011 is 129(13.2%).
3.2 Sex Ratio

Male Population is 52.6% whereas female is 47.4% according to 2011 census.
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Graph 3.1 Sex Ratio
3.3 Literacy Rate

Literacy Rate of 2011 is 83.4%.
Every census year, the literacy rate rises rapidly.
Ward 3 needs to improve its literacy rate in contrast to the other wards.
Graph 3.2 Literacy Rate Graph 3.3 Literacy Rate Comparison

3.4Working Population
The working population increased by 32% in 2001 but decreased by 11% in 2011.
Graph 3.4 Working Population Graph 3.5 Working Population Comparison
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4 PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
4.1Housing
4.1.1. Introduction
Housing is a basic requirement. It has a tremendous visual impact on the overall appearance
and urban form of the city. Housing configuration can influence the overall image of a city as
well as its social and cultural life. Housing has strong spatial links with various job centres,
socio-cultural centres, and recreational locations in the framework of the city layout. A good
city development strategy for any metropolitan region also includes the provision of adequate
dwelling spaces in relation to work hubs, industrial areas, and access to various facilities.
Housing does not only refer to the provision of house sites or dwelling units but has far-
reaching implications.
Apart from addressing shelter needs, every housing area is intended to see several other needs
incidental to housing, which would include provision of inexpensive dwelling space with
opportunity for incremental extension to meet changing demands of the family and its
allocation on easy terms. Access to utilities such as water, electricity, waste disposal, and
affordable intra-city and inter-city transportation. Access to social services such as education,
health, and recreation. Availability of transportation modes and facilities that are closely linked
to workplaces, education, and other facilities.
4.1.2. Existing scenarios

The influence of contemporary architecture can be seen in the ward 3 of Gairsain.
Contemporary architecture draws inspiration from various styles and influences. Instead of
following the traditional lines, it incorporates various features and uses of the latest technology
in building construction. Even though a small number of vernacular houses can be noticed in
use and in abandoned form in the hill tops.
The existing scenario can be summed up as
• The regional architecture is depleting because of the influence of contemporary
architecture.
• The use of locally available materials in construction have been reduced because of the
extensive use of bricks, cement etc.
• Use of cut and fill technique in construction is adopted these days which results in the
loss of soil strength and landslides.
• The hilly terrain is mostly converted to a flat surface which results in the above-
mentioned consequences.
• The vernacular architectural features are not seen much in the construction and design
these days.
4.1.3. Features of the traditional housing style

• Buildings are designed according to natural slope of the area.
• Not by excavating land.
• Use of locally available materials.
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• The ground floor usually has small and lesser number of openings because the
inhabitants are mostly on the first floor.
• The ground floor is used as a goth or a gaushala for keeping cattle or used as a storage
room, this also keeps the house warm in the winters.
• Cow dung used for insulation also acts as an insecticide.
• The floor to ceiling height kept minimum so that the interiors remain warm during
winter.
• The overall building heights are kept low so that less heating and cooling energy is
wasted.
Figure 4.1 Housing Plan and Section
4.1.4. Primary survey information

There are 3 different housing typologies visible in ward 3 and they are detached, plotted and
row housing. In that, 50% of houses are detached and remaining are plotted and row housing
of 25% each. The dwelling units present in the ward 3 are of two types only: Pucca and semi
pucca. In that 82.1% houses are pucca and the remaining 17.9% houses are semi-pucca.
Looking into the house ownership status, 80.8% of the households were owned property. The
rest 19.2% were rented. In this most of the rented members are migrants who migrated for
employment opportunities or during covid period. The washroom type i.e., WC & WCB were
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25.9% and 74.1% respectively. The average monthly rent as calculated from the primary survey
is 3000 rupees. The average age of the houses present in the ward is 15 years. 82% of people
in 5 – 15 years old houses are migrants. The average number of habitable rooms are 4. There
was no parking space availability for 61.1% of houses. Only 7% of the total residents has
benefitted from any housing scheme. 83% of households have their own kitchen and flower
garden. For better understanding the values are represented in the following pie charts of fig
4….. below.
Graph 4.1 Household Survey Datas
Fig 4.2 Row housing Fig 4.3 Semi-Pucca abundant house Fig 4.4 Pucca house with parking space
Fig 4.5 Backyard garden Fig 4.6 on-street parking
4.2. Water supply

Water is coming from 2 gadhera to ward 3, the major source of drinking water in hills are small
rivers and rivulets locally called gadhera and they are Chorani and Gwad. The water is then
collected in a tank which has a capacity of 365kL.
92.86% of houses have household connections and the remaining 7.14% depends on public
stand post. These people spent 30-45 minutes collecting water from external source. The
average monthly water charges calculated from primary survey is ₹250. From the primary
survey it is also noted that only 69.2 % households have water meters and the remaining 30.8%
91
do not have a water meter. The frequency of water supply in household connections are- 76.2%
households get water twice in a day and 23.8% households get water only once in a day.
According to parameters 24 hours water supply is required but only 33.3% households get
water more than 2 hours the remaining 66.7% households get only 1–2-hour water supply. This
indicates that there is gap in the coverage and continuity of water supply, even though the
people are satisfied with the service.
A map is also formed based on the water scarcity identified during the primary survey. In which
the areas are categorized as affected areas with high water scarcity areas, moderate affected
areas, and low affected areas. In this ward 3 only have moderate and low affected areas. The
map ….. shows comparison of all 7 wards and the map … shows the source and water supply
network in ward 3.
Map 4.1 Physical Infrastructure Map

4.3. Electricity supply
There are no transformers present inside the boundary of ward 3. The distribution is through
poles mounted overhead and the average electricity bill calculated with the primary survey
details is ₹ 645.97. Streetlights are only present along the main roads and at major junctions.
92
4.4. Sanitation
It is found from the primary survey that 96.63% households have toilets. Remaining 3.33%
relay on open defecation and there are no public toilets in the ward 3. Due to the settlement
patterns and other reasons, there are no sewerage network present instead soak pits are in use.
4.5. Drainage
In the study area 80% of drains were natural drains and only 20% are pucca drains. In this 20%
the ones at the major junctions are covered remaining all are open drains. The location of drains
are marked in the map …….
Fig 4.7 Closed Drains Fig 4.8 Open Drains Fig 4.8Open Drains with Water Pipes
4.6. Solid waste management

In the primary survey it is observed that there is 63.3% of door-to-door collection and an
amount of ₹20 is collected for waste collection. In this only 23.33% are only paying the amount
and the remaining 76.67% are not paying any amount. The frequency of waste collection is
daily for 83.3% households, 6.7% has 2-3 times a week, 3.3% has weekly once and 6.7% of
has no collection. 16.7% of the households are burning the waste. 10 % of households are
dumping waste in the community bin and remaining 10% are following open disposal.
Street sweeping happens twice a week. From the study it is observed that partial source
segregation of waste is happening and there is no availability of any waste recovery facility.
There are local rag pickers authorised by the municipality to segregate and collect the
recyclable portion of the total waste and the rest of the waste is dumped in an open dumping
site.
Graph 4.2 Solid Waste Datas

Fig4.9 Waste Collection Vehicle
93
Social Infrastructure includes Health Care facilities, Education infrastructures, Sports facilities,
Recreational facilities, and other distribution services. The social Infrastructure of Ward 3 is
strong enough to support the population residing in ward 3 as well as in nearby wards. This
ward has 1 community health centre, 3 Schools, 1 anganwadi, 1 animal husbandry and 2
temples.
Map 5.1 Social Infrastructures in Ward 3

The Community Health Centre has 5 head officers, there are a total of 30 beds in the hospital.
There is an average footfall of 50-70 people per day. There are 95 Asha workers and 3 MNMs
working under this CHC. There is 1 government ambulance for the hospital and 3 108
ambulances which works for it. Usually for serious illness people are referred to Hospitals
outside the ward like AIIMS Hospital Rishikesh and Base Hospital Karnprayag. Government
provides different schemes for school students of Gairsain. This includes scheme provided by
Central Government as well as state Government. Some of the schemes are Mid-day Meal
Prognder P M Poshan Yojana, Financial Aid for Children with special needs (CSWN) under
SSA, Escort services for CSWN students and financial aid of Rs 780 for students of class 1 to
8 for buying footwear and bag.
94
Figure 5.1 Health centre Figure 5.2 Anganwadi Figure 5.3 Temple
For Understanding the Gaps and need of people a ward level analysis is conducted which
includes 3 types of analysis namely Proximity Analysis, Ped-Shed Analysis and Gap Analysis.
Proximity analysis is done based on URDPFI guidelines. URDPFI guidelines volume 1 states
that all social infrastructure facilities should be in a walkable distance of 300-800m. So,
considering this Proximity analysis is done as shown in Map xxx. From this we can conclude
that Ward 3 has a good proximity to health care facility. The total area of ward 3 is under 800m
buffer and 46% area of ward 3 is under 300m buffer. The 96% area of ward 3 is within 800m
distance to the health centre, but trails and poor connectivity of hilly areas make it difficult to
reach hospital during emergency.
Map 5.2 Proximity Analysis of Schools Map 5.3 Proximity Analysis of Hospital
But the disadvantage of this analysis is that it doesn’t represent the connectivity of the area
towards hospital. As the study area is in a hilly terrain many people don’t have direct
connections to main roads. So, a Ped Shed Analysis has been conducted to analyse the
connectivity of the area. Through the proximity analysis as in Map xxx 80% of habitable area
of the ward is within walkable distance from hospital. Only a few households have to walk
more than 800m to reach the hospital.
95
Map 5.4 Ped – Shed Analysis of Hospital
A gap analysis has also been done to find out the gaps in the social infrastructure of the area.
The area has a strong infrastructure, but a community hall would add to the recreational space
of the people.
Table 5.1 Gap Analysis of Social Infrastructure
96
6. ENVIRONMENT
Enviromental analysis includes various aspects related to terrain and natural disasters.
Map 6.1 Slope Map
7. PROPOSALS AND WAY FORWARD

7.1. Proposed Land Use Map
Map 7.1 Land use Land Cover (2033) map of Ward 3, Gairsain Nagar Panchayat
97
Table 7.1 Land use Land Cover table (2033) map of Ward 3, Gairsain Nagar Panchayat
7.2 Phase wise Development

The phased development plan for Ward 3 Gairsain Nagar Panchayat, Gairsain, Uttarakhand,
spanning from Phase I (2023-2028) to Phase II (2028-2033)
Let's elaborate on each phase:
7.2.1 Phase I (2023-2028):

Change of Land Use:
Purpose: The change of land use suggests a strategic re-evaluation and adjustment of how
specific areas are utilized. This may involve transitioning from agricultural or forested areas
to urban or industrial use or residential.
Land Acquisition:
Objective: Land acquisition may be necessary for various development projects, such as road
widening, infrastructure expansion, construction of a vermicompost plant.
Road Widening:
Purpose: Road widening aims to address traffic congestion, enhance road safety, and
accommodate the growing transportation needs of the region.
Community Bins:
Objective: Introducing community bins indicates a commitment to waste management and
community cleanliness.
Community Engagement: Community bins require awareness campaigns to educate residents
on proper waste disposal. Regular maintenance and waste collection services should be
established.
7.2.2 Phase II (2028-2033):
98
Allocation of Parking Space:
Objective: Allocating parking spaces is vital for managing vehicular traffic and ensuring
organized urban development.
Integration with Road Widening: The allocation of parking spaces should align with the road
widening efforts to accommodate increased traffic and provide convenient parking options
for residents and visitors.
Development of Parks:
Purpose: The development of parks contributes to the aesthetic appeal of the region, promotes
recreational activities, and enhances the overall quality of life for residents.
Green Spaces: Parks should be designed as green spaces with consideration for local flora,
fauna, and recreational amenities. Community input can guide the design process.
Construction of Vermicompost Plant:
Objective: The construction of a vermicompost plant signifies a commitment to sustainable
waste management practices.
Site Selection: Like in previous responses, selecting an appropriate location, potentially
within the civil forest as mentioned earlier, can help mitigate potential environmental impacts
and odours.
In summary, the phased development plan for Gairsain encompasses a holistic approach,
addressing infrastructure, environmental conservation, waste management, and community
well-being. Each phase should prioritize sustainability, community involvement, and the
integration of various initiatives for a balanced and resilient development strategy.
7.3. Details of the Proposal

7.3.1 Change of Land-use
Agricultural Land Use will be converted to Residential Land Use as there is demand for
housing and thus influx of people in Ward 3. This change is conducted specifically to control
the growth of Ward 3. As per the projected population we will see a steady increase in
population thus in order to cater to this growing demand Agricultural Landuse will be
converted to Residential.
7.3.2 Land Acquisition:

Land Acquisition for Vermicompost Plant:
Site Selection: Choosing the south-eastern part of the civil forest for the vermicompost plant
demonstrates a thoughtful approach. This location strategically places the facility within the
civil forest, providing a natural buffer for the potential foul Odours that can be associated
with vermicomposting. The forest acts as a barrier, mitigating the impact on the surrounding
neighbourhood.
99
Buffer Zone Planning: Designating a buffer zone within the civil forest not only helps address
odour concerns but also contributes to the overall conservation of the forest ecosystem.
Proper planning and land use zoning can ensure that the vermicompost plant and the forest
coexist with minimal impact on each other.
Land Acquisition for Road Widening:
The widening of a road, particularly when involving land acquisition from a civil forest, is a
complex process that requires careful planning and consideration of various factors. The
current 3m road will be widened to proposed 5.5m-wide road. Wider roads often contribute to
improved road safety by providing additional space for vehicles and emergency vehicles.
7.3.3 Road Widening
Fig. 7.1 3m wide road has been widened. Road of 5.5 m of intermediate lane has been proposed.
7.3.4 Parks and Parking

A 1600 square meter park has been envisioned for the area, with a primary focus on creating
an intrinsic environment that fosters a sense of natural beauty and tranquility. This proposed
park aims to not only enhance the aesthetics of the surroundings but also contribute
significantly to the well-being of the community by offering recreational benefits. To cater to
the practical needs of visitors, a designated parking area of 45 square meters has been
included in the plan, capable of accommodating up to 10 two-wheelers. This thoughtful
addition ensures convenient access for individuals, encouraging them to engage with the
park's offerings and fostering a harmonious blend of nature and recreation within the
proposed space.
7.3.5 Solid Waste Management
100
7.3.5.1: Proposal for Community bins
According to the Municipal Solid Waste (Management &
Handling) Rules 2000, community bins designated for dry and
wet waste must have a capacity of 240 Litres each. These rules
underscore the importance of efficient waste management
practices at the community level. The specification of separate
bins for dry and wet waste aims to promote segregation at the
source, facilitating easier recycling and disposal processes. The
240-liter capacity reflects a standardized volume that is deemed
Fig. 7.3 Community Bins
adequate for the collective disposal needs of a community,
ensuring that the bins can accommodate the generated waste
without overflow issues. By adhering to these regulations, local authorities contribute to the
overall goal of promoting environmentally sustainable waste management practices and
fostering a cleaner, healthier living environment for the community.
7.3.5.2 Proposal for Vermicompost Plant:

Under National Horticulture Mission (NHM) financial assistance is provided for setting up
vermicompost production units @ 50% of the cost subject to a maximum of Rs.30,000/- per
beneficiary. Under National Project on Management of Soil Health and Fertility (NPMSHF)
there is provision for subsidy on promotion of organic fertilizer upto 500/- per hectare. Total
compensation= Total Agriculture land x price per hectare Total compensation= 26.05x
500=13250/-Assistance is also available for organic fertilizers under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas
Yojna (RKVY). Proposed Vermicompost Plant: Area of 0.65 acres (According to Ministry of
Agriculture)
101
WARD 4
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Local Area Plan of Ward 4, Gairsain, Uttarakhand.
1.2 Abstract
Developing a Local Area Plan for a hilly area requires a thorough process that takes into
account the particular topographical difficulties and community dynamics. The plan seeks to
achieve a balance between development and environmental conservation by identifying
ecological components, understanding the topography, and conducting a complete site analysis.
Engaging local stakeholders and conducting FGDs ensures that the plan aligns with community
needs. Essential components involve LULC Distribution, transportation planning, disaster
resilience etc. with a focus on developing strong infrastructure that can handle the hilly terrain.
1.3 Aim
To develop a local area plan for the development of Ward-4 of Gairsain Nagar Panchayat in
consideration with the current scenario for the year 2033.
1.4 Vision
Gairsain's development as a capital city from a sustainable, socioeconomic, cultural, and
environmental aspect.
1.5 Objective
Prospecting natural resources and integrating it with current sustainable planning practices.
• Improving the current infrastructure, facilities, and services.
• Improve the standard of living through providing sufficient resources and amenities.
1.6 Methodology:
103
1.7 About the Area:
Ward 4 of Gairsain Nagar Panchayat holds a central and significant role in the town's
infrastructure and community services.
▪ Central Location in Gairsain Nagar Panchayat:
Being situated in the core of Gairsain Nagar Panchayat, Ward 4 likely serves as a focal point
for various civic and administrative activities. Central locations often house essential facilities
and services that cater to the needs of the entire town.
▪ Primary Market Area:
Ward 4's designation as the primary market area suggests that it is a hub for commercial
activities. The presence of markets implies a concentration of businesses, shops, and potentially
other economic activities. This central market likely serves as a vital economic and social
center for residents to purchase goods and engage in daily transactions.
▪ Government Buildings:
The significant number of nearby government buildings within Ward 4 emphasizes its
administrative importance. Government offices often play a crucial role in the provision of
public services, including civic administration, governance, and other essential functions. This
concentration of government infrastructure in Ward 4 indicates its role as an administrative hub
within Gairsain.
In summary, Ward 4 in Gairsain Nagar Panchayat serves as a central and multifunctional area,
hosting essential civic, economic, and administrative functions. The presence of the primary
market area and government buildings highlights its significance in catering to the needs of
residents, facilitating economic activities, and managing administrative affairs for the
community.
104
Map 1.7.1. Base map
105
1.8 Regional Setting:
1. National Highway 87 (NH-87), which is a part of the Char Dham Yatra route well
connected to major towns like Dehradun, Rishikesh, Haridwar, and other districts in the
state.
2. Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (233 Km).
3. Rail Connectivity: Rishikesh (201 Km) & Kathgodam Railway Station (166 Km).
4. Bus Services: Uttarakhand Road Transport Corporation (UTC) and private bus
operators
Map 1.8.1.
2. LULC
In the last 20 years, Gairsain's land usage has undergone significant change. The provided data
represent the land use distribution in Gairsain over three different years (2003, 2013, and
2023) across various categories. Each value represents the proportion of land use in terms of
percentage or a similar scale. Here's an interpretation of the data:
Commercial:
• The proportion of land used for commercial purposes has remained relatively
stable over the years, hovering around 0.96%.
Religious:
106
• The percentage of land used for religious purposes has remained constant at
0.0053%.
Green Areas:
• The land allocated for green areas, indicative of parks or other environmentally
friendly spaces, has slightly increased from 0.975% in 2003 to 0.975% in 2023.
Residential:
• The residential land use has seen an increase from 3.26% in 2003 to 3.81% in
2023, suggesting some growth in the residential areas.
Educational:
• The land dedicated to educational purposes has remained stable at around
0.02%.
Mixed Use:
• The mixed-use land has decreased from 0.092% in 2003 to 0.092% in 2023.
Agricultural Land:
• Agricultural land has seen a notable decrease from 2.56% in 2003 to 0.54% in
2023.
Vacant Land:
• Vacant land has decreased from 2.04% in 2003 to 0.47% in 2023.
State Govt. Property:
• The percentage of land designated as state government property has decreased
from 0.64% in 2003 to 0.47% in 2023.
Recreational:
• The land allocated for recreational purposes has slightly increased from 0.86%
in 2003 to 0.78% in 2023.
Road:
• The percentage of land used for roads has shown fluctuations, with a decrease
from 0.55% in 2003 to 0.8% in 2023.
These trends suggest shifts in land use patterns over the years, with notable changes in
residential, agricultural, vacant, state government, and recreational areas. It indicates a dynamic
landscape with evolving priorities and development patterns in Gairsain.
107
Map 2.1
Map 2.2 Map 2.3
108
2.2. Terrain Analysis
Terrain analysis involves studying and interpreting the topography of a landscape. This analysis
is crucial for various applications, such as environmental modeling, land-use planning, and
natural resource management. In our case it helps us to find and assign the best suitable land
parcels available in ward 4 for the purpose of future developments and proposals. five critical
factors for spatial planning in hill areas were identified which are as follows-
• Slope
• Aspect
• Hillshade
• Run-off
• Existing vegetation (NDVI)
Each of these assessments for our ward are given below
Slope- The ratio of rise to run between two locations. It indicates steepness, incline, or grade.
The slope of a site under consideration has a critical role in any development activity because
of the higher cost of construction on steep slopes. Moreover, any development on steep slopes
affects the stability of a slope and can lead to landslides. No construction should be ordinarily
undertaken in areas with slopes above 30 degrees or in areas that fall in landslide hazard zones.
Map 2.2.1 slope map Map 2.2.2. Aspect Map
Aspect- Aspect represents the orientation of a slope (i.e., the direction it faces). Aspect is
important for understanding sunlight exposure, which influences ecological patterns and
can be crucial in various applications such as settlements, agriculture and forestry. The
compass direction that the downhill slope faces for each location. In the northern hemisphere,
north-facing slopes receive very little heat from the sun in winter and south-facing slopes
receive much more heat. Therefore, south facing slopes are warmer than the north facing slopes
in winter. Thus, south facing slopes are desired in hill areas.
109
Hillshade- Hillshade models simulate the shading effects of the sun on the terrain, providing
a visual representation of the landscape. Hillshade models are useful for cartographic
purposes and enhancing the visualization of terrain features. Hill shade uses light and dark
colors to highlight where sunlight would hit and where shadows would form in the presence
of hills. Hill shade is a grayscale representation of the surface, with the sun's relative
position is taken into account for shading.
Map 2.2.3 hillshade map Map 2.2.4. Run-off pattern
Run-off- run-off pattern analysis is crucial for understanding water flow and drainage
patterns. It can be used to delineate watersheds, trace the flow path of water, and identify
potential areas of flooding or erosion. - The pattern of flow of water over the surface of the
land to a drainage channel. When development activities encroach drainage channels, its
ability to carry water is reduced and the potential for structural harm is increased.
110
Existing vegetation (NDVI)- In this study vegetation is analyzed with the help of the
Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). It quantifies vegetation by measuring the
difference between near-infrared (which vegetation strongly reflects) and red light (which
vegetation absorbs). The values of NDVI range from -1 to +1. NDVI close to +1 represents
dense green vegetation which may be restricted for development.
Map 2.2.5. NDVI Map2.2.6. land suitabilty map
After all of these analysis a buffer was created around each existing feature on the site under
consideration, which helped in excluding the areas which were restricted from
development. In the present case study, existing features which were buffered include
existing village road, water channel, site boundary, pathway, existing buildings, and state
roads. The resulting aras are divided on the basis of their suitability ranging from least
suitable to most suitable. Therefore we have the most suitable land for proposals and future
development in ward 4.
111
3. DEMOGRAPHY
3.1 Demography
The total population of Ward 4 is 300, which is calculated by multiplying the total residential
buildings (100) with the average household size of the ward (3). The average household size
of ward 4 is obtained from the primary survey data. The population density calculated is 26
persons per hectare. The ward is highly dense with respect to population as compared to other
wards within Gairsain Nagar Panchayat area.
Trends
Population: The population rose from 160 (1991) to 194 (2001). The population increase was
approximately 1.21%. Then again, it rose to 244 in 2011, having an increase of about 1.25%.
This data was obtained from the Census of India.
Sex Ratio: Female population was higher than the male population since 1991. It moved from
1098 to 1177 in 2001 (1.07%). Then after 2001, the sex ratio experienced slight decline (-
0.95%), it changed to 1114.
Literacy Rate: The literacy rate in the ward experienced significant increase, it rose from
65.57% to 81% in 2001. It was a result of implementation of many state government schemes
pertaining to education. In 2011, literacy rate had a very slight increase from 81% to 82%.
Children less than 6 years: Not much change was seen in the population of children in the ward.
It lied in the range of 30-35 from 1991 to 2011.
Working Population: There was tremendous increase in the working population from 25
(15.6%) to 85 (43.8%) in 2001. In 2011, it rose from 85 to 136 (55.7%). The percentage in the
brackets shows the share of working population to the whole population.
Working Population
Majority of the working population are in others as our ward has the
central business district of Gairsain. Agriculture practiced in the ward
for majorly for subsistence purposes. The share of workers in others
gradually increased from 1991. Share of Agricultural labourers and
cultivators are comparatively lesser. There is no share of working
population in Household Industry.
Population Projection Figure 3.1.1
Population Actual Calculated % Error Projected

Projection Population Population Population
(2023) (2023) (2033)
Arithmetic 300 262 12.67% 296
Geometric 300 285 5% 345
Incremental 300 302 0.67% 376
As seen from the above table, the incremental increase method is found
Table 3.1.1
to be more accurate in calculation of projected population. The projected
population of 2033 according to incremental increase method is 376.
112
3.2. Socio Economic Profile
The ward is characterized by its relatively small size, and its entirety falls within a 200m
buffer zone of a major road, National Highway 109. This indicates a high level of
accessibility to transportation and potential exposure to economic activities associated with
a major road.
The circle rates, which are the government-determined minimum rates for property
transactions, reveal interesting trends. Residential land within the immediate 50m
proximity of the major road commands higher circle rates compared to land located
between 50-200m from the road. This implies that properties closer to the major road are
considered more valuable, possibly due to factors like better visibility, accessibility, or
commercial potential. Additionally, both residential and commercial lands in this ward have
relatively higher circle rates compared to other wards. This suggests that property values
are generally elevated in this area, emphasizing its economic significance.
Map 3.2.1 circle rates of residential area

113
Map 3.2.2 circle rates of commercial areas in ward
The average monthly income of the residents falls within the range of 25000-50000 Rs.
This suggests a moderate income level, and it's worth noting that this range can indicate a
diverse economic landscape within the ward, encompassing both middle and upper-middle-
income segments.
According to the Census 4-fold classification, the majority of the population is classified
as "Other Workers." This term typically includes people engaged in various occupations
that do not fall under the categories of cultivators, agricultural laborers, household industry
workers, or those in the service sector. This implies a diverse job market within the ward,
possibly involving roles in manufacturing, trade, and other non-agricultural activities
114
4. HOUSING AND PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
4.1 Housing
Map 4.1.1. Building use

Map 4.1.2. Building Height
Figure 4.1.1 Figure 4.1.2
Map 4.1.3. Building Typology
115
The dwelling units present in the ward 4 are of two types only: Pucca and semi pucca. There
were no kuchha houses present in ward 4. Looking into the house ownership status, 70% of the
households were owned property. The rest were rented by migrants who migrated for
employment opportunities or during covid period. The washroom type i.e., WC & WCB were
almost in equal proportion. The average monthly rent as calculated from the primary survey is
3250 rupees. The average age of the houses present in the ward is 14 years. The average number
of habitable rooms is 3. There was no parking space availability in any house present. Only 5%
of the total residents has benefitted from any housing scheme.
4.2. Roads
In Ward No. 4, there are just two different kinds of roads: 4 metres, which serve as collection
roads, and 8 metres (NH-109), respectively showing in Map 6.1.1 below. There are also trails
that improve local pedestrian connectivity. The Total Road Length is 2,813 m covering total area
under Roads is 16,572 sq m.
Road Width Length Of Road(in m) % Of Total Road
4m 1330 10.23
8m 1483 5.7
Total % Of Area Under Roads 15.93
Table 4.2.1 showing Road coverage area.
4.3. Transportation
Walking is preferred by 55% of individuals because it's more convenient than driving a
vehicle. People choose to walk more because of the poor state of the roads, which makes
driving risky. Travel time to hospitals outside of Gairsain is influenced by poor road
conditions.
Mode of Transportation
5%
5% car
15% bicycle
55% 20%
2-wheeler
Graph 4.3.1
Fig 4.3.1 Fig 4.3.2 Fig 4.3.3
Bad conditions of roads can be seen from these pictures.

Map 6.1.1, Road Width Map, Ward
116
no.4
Time to reach amenities
80% 70%
60% 55%
50%
45% 45%
40%
40% 30% 30%
20% 20%
20% 15% 15% 15%
10% 10% 10%
5% 5% 5% 5%
0%
School/College Kirana Health/Clinic Pharmacy Workplace
0-10mins 10-20mins 20-30mins >30mins
Graph 4.3.2
4.4. Water Supply

The Map 4.4.1 below is showing the pipeline network of water and natural streams flowing in
the ward area.
Map 4.4.1 water network Map 4.4.2 water scarcity in the area
Map 4.4.1 Primary source Water meters Duration

10%
1-2
27.77% hour
Private 27.78%
Yes
55.56% >2
No hour
90% PSP 72.22% 16.67%
<1
hour
Graph 4.4.1 Graph 4.4.2 Graph 4.4.3
117
The average water charge is 300 rupees, and it takes 30 minutes to get water from
outside. Water supply occurs once or twice daily.
Only 25% of the built-up area has moderate water scarcity, with the remaining 75% of the
built-up region is less affected. During the summer, people primarily experience water
scarcity. Affected areas can be seen from the Map 6.3.2(below).
4.5 Electricity
The ward area has three transformers, varying in a power range of 63 kv to
250 kv.
4.6. Solid Waste Management
Type of SWM Collection

10%
10%
80%
Community Bin
Open Disposal
Graph 4.6.1
Garbage disposal through burning is not prevalent in this area. The ward area
lacks designated community garbage containers.
4.7. Sanitation
Nearly 95% of homes use soak pits to release their sewage, 45% have pucca
drains, and the remaining homes have natural drains.
118
Building social infrastructure which provides inclusive and sustainable structures and facilities
to foster community engagement, social capital, and overall societal development is important
for the well-being of any community.
5.1 Education
Ward 4 of Gairsain Nagar Panchayat has one Primary school within the area and 6 other
Primary, Upper Primary and Higher Secondary level schools as mentioned in Table 6.0.
Schools in and around Ward 4 of Gairsain Nagar Panchayat (2021)
No. of No. of Students S: T Ratio
S. No. School Category
Teachers Male Female
1 Seedling Pre P 8 86 59 18:1
Parotary
School
2 J.S.N.S.N.M. P, UP, S, 18 311 236 30:1
Inter College HS
3 Rajeev UP, S, HS 17 70 69 8:1
Gandhi
Navodaya
Vidhyalaya
4 Aadarsh P.S. P, UP 6 48 50 16:1
5 New Hope P, UP 8 74 39 14:1
A.
6 GGIC UP, S, HS 8 0 93 12:1
7 S.S.M. P 7 47 37 12:1
Table 5.1.1
Note. Data obtained from UDISE, 2021.
Fig. 5.1.1 GGIC School Fig. 5.1.2 Rajeev Gandhi Navodaya Vidhayalaya
Right to Education Act of 2009 specifies a student to teacher ratio of not more than 30:1 and
35:1 for Primary and Secondary level schools respectively. As per the above-mentioned Table
4.1 all the schools inside and around the ward abide by the Act.
Also, even though Gairsain area has a Gender Parity Index (GPI) of 1.02 the ward has a low
GPI of 0.92 which according to UNSECO’s International Institute for Educational Planning is
much below the standard GPI of 0.97-1.03 to indicate parity in the relative access of education
to males and females. This may be due to the dynamic demographic trends of the area in the
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past two decades since there has been a 5.4% decrease in the sex-ratio but 0.9% increase in
literacy rate of the area from 2001 to 2011 (Census 2001, 2011).
5.2 Healthcare
There is one Community Health Centre and nine
Dispensaries/ Clinics in the area. Although such healthcare
infrastructure is present the residents are often referred to
visit Srinagar for any kind of medical assistance as per the
primary survey. More than 50% of residents find that it
takes more than 10 minutes for them to access to the nearest
Healthcare facility (refer to Figure 4.4).
Fig.5.2.1Community Health Centre
Facility Vs Time Taken to Reach
Note. Data source is Primary Survey, 2023.

Figure 5.2.2
5.3 Safety, Security and Community Spaces
Police Station: There is one police station in the area
which covers the Gairsain Nagar Panchayat
Jurisdiction having 186-196 villages. The police
station has 18 force members (as per Primary
Survey).
Community Spaces: There is one Community Hall
in the area having the Ramleela Mandal Office
adjoined with it. Apart from it there is a 1.7 ha
recreational space with multipurpose use. Fig. 5.3.1 Multipurpose Recreational
Space
6. PROPOSALS
6.1Junction Redesign & Road Widening
6.1.1. Existing Junction
The proposed junction redesign and road widening project in Ward 4 stands as a vital initiative
in response to the growing demands of our expanding community in Gairsain. With the aim of
optimizing traffic flow, enhancing safety measures, and upgrading essential infrastructure, the
project addresses the challenges posed by the increasing population and economic activities in
the ward.
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Fig. 6.1.1 Existing Junction of Ward 4
The junction faces several critical issues that impact both safety and the overall functionality
of the transportation network. The absence of enough spaces for different modes of
transportation poses a significant challenge. The use of a one-way street as a two-way
thoroughfare can lead to confusion, increased risk of accidents, and disruptions in traffic flow.
The absence of a designated bus stop hinders the efficiency of public transportation, potentially
causing delays and inconvenience for commuters. Moreover, the lack of footpaths and
pedestrian crossings compromises the safety of pedestrians, making it challenging for them to
navigate the junction safely. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive redesign that
considers the needs of various road users, including drivers, pedestrians, and public transport
users, to create a more organized, safe, and accessible junction. This may involve implementing
dedicated lanes, constructing bus stops, and developing pedestrian-friendly infrastructure such
as sidewalks and crosswalks.
6.1.2. Proposal
A proposal by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to increase the width of NH
109 from 7 meters to 20 meters. Additionally, there is a proposal for Dak Bangla Road to be
widened to 5 meters from the current width of 4 meters.
There is a comprehensive plan for infrastructure development along NH-109 and Dak Bangla
Road. Here's a breakdown of the proposed features:
➢ NH-109:
▪ Road Widening: The width of NH-109 is proposed to be increased from 7 meters to 20
meters.
▪ Lanes: The number of lanes on NH-109 is increased from 2 to 4, which can significantly
improve traffic flow and capacity.
▪ Median: A median of 1 meter is proposed, providing a physical barrier between
opposing lanes, enhancing safety and traffic organization.
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▪ Streetlights: Streetlights are planned along NH-109 at a distance of 21 meters,
enhancing visibility and safety during nighttime.
▪ Footpaths: A 2-meter-wide footpath is planned on both sides of NH-109, providing a
safe and designated space for pedestrians.
▪ Bus Stops: Bus stops are proposed on both sides of NH-109, enhancing public
transportation accessibility and convenience.
▪ Taxi Parking: Parking spaces for taxis are allocated, with dimensions of 2 meters by 5
meters.
➢ Dak Bangla Road:

▪ Road Widening: Dak Bangla Road is proposed to be widened to 5 meters from the
current 4 meters.
▪ Footpath: A 1.8-meter-wide footpath is planned, improving pedestrian safety and
accessibility.
Fig. 6.2.1. Proposed Junction of Ward 4

➢ Existing Roads
Map of Existing Roads with the buffer of the proposed road width on both NH-109 and Dak
Bangla Road of 20m and 5m respectively.
122
Fig. 6.2.2 Existing Roads with the Buffer of Ward 4
Construction or development project is expected to impact existing structures.

➢ Built Ups Affected:
▪ A total of 108 built-up structures are expected to be affected by the project. This implies
that these structures may undergo changes or face potential demolition.
➢ Dismantled Area:
▪ Approximately 4000 square meters of area is slated for dismantling. This suggests that
a significant portion of the existing structures will be removed or modified to
accommodate the proposed changes.
➢ Built Ups Completely Removed:
▪ 14 built-up structures are specified to be completely removed. This indicates that these
structures will be taken down entirely as part of the project.
➢ Residential Units Assigned Mixed Use:
▪ 40 residential units are earmarked for mixed-use purposes. This implies a change in the
function of these units, likely incorporating both residential and commercial elements.
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▪ Sections
Existing NH 109 Proposed NH 109
Existing (4m) Existing (5m)
Fig 6.2.3.Community Space Design: Transforming Space into Place
Fig. 6.2.4 Existing Recreation Space of Ward 4, Gairsain Nagar Panchayat
In the existing situation there is dedicated community space except for the Ramleela Stage.
There is no community hall, playground, public park, etc. Community spaces play a vital role
in fostering social connections, promoting a sense of belonging, and enhancing the overall
well-being of individuals and communities. The space proposed to be redesigned to be
converted into a community space is the open ground beside Nagar Panchayat Office.
124
The purpose of the redesign is to recreate the space in such a way so that the existing
activities inside the ground are retained such as the cricket pitch and the volleyball court;
providing designated activity areas and circulation and landscape.
Fig. 6.2.5 Proposed Community Space of Ward 4, Gairsain Nagar Panchayat
80.73% of the existing space is used for the proposed area where playground, jogging track,
plantation row, community hall with appropriate furniture, cricket pitch and volleyball court.
Majority of the area is covered by the Playground to ensure a variety of activities. The
community hall provided shall be open with stairs all around having empty space at the
centre. The plantation row includes pink Brahma Kamal the State flower, Camphor trees and
Jatamansi.
The design is inspired by Tapis Rouge public space in an informal neighbourhood in Haiti
and Community Canvas School of India where the vernacular concept has been focused.
Also, the place making strategy of Singapore has been adopted to an extent. The design is
aimed to act as a transition zone from the economic centre of Ward 4 to community gathering
place as well as to act as a multipurpose service.
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WARD 5
1.INTRODUCTION
In Indian urban regions, the Zonal Development Plan and the City Master Plan comprise the
first and second levels of planning, respectively, and the Local Area Plan sets up the third tier.
It is the smallest part of the City's planning process and is used to carry out the goals of the
Zonal Plans and the City Master Plan.
It acts as a catalyst for community involvement and provides a means of understanding and
include the actual world, such as the deficiency of infrastructure and the market's need for
services and space. Local area plan gives a thorough grasp of the state of affairs and the
demands of the community (with regard to facilities, services, utilities, and the effects of
improvements on traffic, transportation, and the environment). It takes into account the
viability of redevelopment as well as its applicability in the housing market. Ultimately, a plan
for implementation is developed to guarantee that the Local Area Plan is carried out on
schedule.
All of these are compiled to prepare a plan feasible to all and to deliver it in a given period of
time.
Aim and Objectives

Preparation of GIS based Local Area Plan of Gairsain Nagar Panchayat, summer capital of
Uttarakhand.
Vision
Economic revitalization and environmentally sustainable development of Gairsain as a Capital
city of Uttarakhand.
Objective: -
1. Sustainable growth keeping environment as key factor
a. Forest Area
b. Waterbodies
2. Connectivity to the City Centre and Terrain based development.
3. Development in accordance with the terrain and connectivity of the city to other
prime locations
4. Standardization and formalization of land registration, transfer and sale
a. Introduction of building regulations and codes.
b. Mitigation of Natural Disasters by restricting development in disaster prone
areas.
5. Encouraging economic growth by leveraging products unique to the area.
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Methodology and Process
Fig 1.1 Methodology
About the Area

The study area given to us is Gairsain, Uttarakhand. It is located in the Chamoli district. The
entire study area for the studio is spread out over 7.4 km2, which encompasses the Gairsain
municipal boundary. The major road running through it is the National Highway 109 which
connects the entire Kumaon region to the state and the country. It is the major route connecting
hill stations (Nainital, Almora, Ranikhet, etc.).
Ward 5 is situated towards the western region of the entire area. This covers a total area of 54.9
hectares (approx. 7.4%). The area covers 3 villages namely, Rikholi, Koliyana, and a part of
Koniyana Laga Dhargair. It has a total population density of 3.6pph with a total population of
300 approx.
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Map 1.1 Base Map of Ward 5
Land use
Land use distribution for ward 5 is as follows: -
1. The highest land use cover is occupied by the Forest ranges (55%).
2. Agricultural fields cover 16% of the total land use.
3. Vacant Land covers 0.002% of total area.
4. Residential covers 24% of the total area.
5. A major part of the Ram Ganga River flows through the area. The water bodies
cover approximately 5% of the total area.
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Map 1.1 Land Use of Ward 5
2.DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE
The study investigates the demographic and socioeconomic shifts in Gairsain and Ward 5 from
1991 to 2011, revealing distinctive patterns influenced by factors such as migration,
urbanization, and economic developments. The study aims to analyse and corelate various
factors such as population growth trend, literacy rate, workforce, etc to evaluate the
demographic character of the study area.
130
Population Growth
Gairsain experienced a remarkable 47% population increase from 1991 to 2031, while Ward 5
showed a 23% growth, reflecting varied demographic trajectories shaped by diverse influences.
The population in Ward 5 exhibited a gradual rise until 2011, followed by an exponential
increase. This suggests the impact of changing administrative factors, heightened urbanization,
and economic forces shaping the demographic landscape. (refer graph)
Population Projection
Thousands
900 825
800
700 664
600 546
500
400
300 257
220 224
200
100
0
1991 2001 2011 2023 2028 2033
Year
Ward 5 Expon. (Ward 5)
Graph 2.1 Population Projection
Sex Ratio Fluctuations:
The sex ratio in Ward 5 declined by 298 (from 1305 to 1007) between 1991 and 2011, indicating
substantial shifts in gender distribution. In Gairsain, a significant drop of 1041 (from 7957 to
6916) during the same period signifies evolving demographic dynamics across the study area.
Sex Ratio
10
Thousands
7.957
8 7.316 6.916
0
1991 2001 2011
Ward 5 Gairsain Expon. (Gairsain)
Graph 2.2 Sex Ratio
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Educational Trends:
In 1991, Ward 5 boasted a higher literacy rate (67.6%) than Gairsain (62.46%). However, by
2011, Gairsain surpassed Ward 5 in literacy, with rates of 84.74% and 80.42%, respectively.
This signals divergent educational trends, potentially influenced by evolving social and
economic factors.
Literacy Rate
100
90 82.37 84.74
80.42
80 76.75
67.6
70 62.46
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
1991 2001 2011
Graph 2.3 Literacy Rate

Working Population:
Ward 5 had 36 working individuals in 1991, increasing by 63% to 98 in 2001. By 2011, the
working population saw a 32.6% surge, reaching 130. In 2011, the workforce in Ward 5
comprised about 50.58% of the total population, highlighting a substantial working-age
demographic. This suggests a changing economic landscape and employment opportunities.
Working Population
4000
3147
3000
2043
2000 1386
1000
36 98 130
0
1991 2001 2011
Graph 2.4 Working Population
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Child Demographics
In 1991, Gairsain had 784 children under 6, compared to Ward 5's 39. Gairsain's child count
continued to rise, reaching 898 in 2011, while Ward 5's declined to 22. These trends underscore
distinct age demographic patterns, potentially influenced by factors such as family planning,
healthcare, and socioeconomic conditions.
Children Below 6
1000
898
900 855
784
800
700
600
500
400
300
200
100 39 39 22
0
1991 2001 2011
Graph 2.5 Children Below 6

The analysis highlights the multidimensional nature of demographic changes in Gairsain and
Ward 5. Migration, urbanization, and economic shifts play pivotal roles in shaping population
dynamics, with each region exhibiting unique characteristics. The findings provide valuable
insights for policymakers and researchers seeking to understand and address the complex
interplay of factors influencing demographic and socioeconomic trends.
3.PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
Physical infrastructure refers to the physical availability and quality of public facilities,
including the number of facilities, facility amenities and resources, the distribution of facilities,
and the appropriate mix of facility types to meet population health needs. In ward 5 we analysed
the different physical infrastructures such as roads, housing,
5.1 Electricity
There are no transformers in the ward. The nearby has the transformer which connects here
also. There are no frequent power cuts in the ward. Only during the monsoon season, there are
disturbances in the power supply. The average electricity bill in the ward is Rs. 1275. As per
the primary survey, a major part of the ward uses solar panels for electricity.
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Map 5.4 – Map showing locations of transformer and Water Pilepline
5.2 Water Supply

The eastern part of ward 5 is fully connected with water pipelines. The frequency of water
supply is twice in a day for 1-2 hours. 47.62% of the houses in ward 5 have water meters
installed and the charges are Rs. 300 per month. The major river Ramganga flows through ward
5 which also serves as a source of water for the residents of the ward.
The solid waste management in the ward is handled by the Gairsain Nagar Panchayat. The
Nagar Panchayat vehicles come daily for door-to-door collection of garbage. 76.48% of the
garbage collection is done through door-to-door method. Other methods of Solid waste
management in the ward are either by burning or in the community bin.
5.4 Housing
Most of the houses in ward 5 are of G or G+1 height. The eastern region of the ward which
connects with the Central Business District of Gairsain has majority of the houses involved in
mixed use. Here, the ground floor of the houses are involved in commercial work and the upper
floors are for residential use. In the northern western part of ward 5, we found few PMAY-
housing beneficiaries also. The housing typology was mostly detached and row housing.
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Map 5.7 – Building use map of ward 5
4.1. Education
Literacy and primary education are critical
tools for empowering people and promoting their
overall development. The fulfilment of these social
goals allows people to interact with the rest of
society, as well as to assert rights and adhere to life's
cherished ideals. It also empowers the person to
make decisions in any area of human activity and to
reject injustice or prejudice.
Fig 4.1 School Children of Gairsain
The transfer from societal purposes of education to labor market, on the other hand, is an
integrated process. Without a broad and solid foundation in primary education, the framework
for human resource development will be restricted and weak. In this light, we examined the
135
state and trends at all levels of schooling in the __ district. To begin, we analyzed the level and
changes in literacy rates.
There are a good number of schools present in the study area. According to the URDPFI
guidelines, a school serves a population. The schools in the study area are P S Gairsain, GIC,
JSNSN memorial, Rajeev Gandhi, Gurukul V N school. There are 5 schools present in the
study area. Hence a300m radius buffer has been assigned.
Map 4.1 Buffer Analysis Of Schools

Graduation level has a proportion of 32.0% according to the survey done in Ward 5, suggesting
that around one-third of the population has achieved their college degree. Illiteracy accounts
for 13.0% of the total population, meaning that a large proportion of the population lacks basic
reading and writing skills.
Graph 4.1
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4.2. Health
One of the major determinants of labor productivity and efficiency. Considering the health, the
existing scenario, and amenities, the existing health infrastructure fulfills the current demand
of the area. The local infrastructure fulfills the village demand based on the population. Coming
to the analysis of available health amenities, there is a scarcity of current technologies and
advanced options for treatment.
Map 1.2 below illustrates the buffer analysis of a health facility (ward 3) located near ward 5.
Map 4.2 Buffer Analysis of Hospital
4.3. Animal Husbandry
Graph 4.2
Graph 4.2 above depicts the number of animals existing in Ward 5, which are employed for
farming purposes. According to our survey, there are 47.8% cattle, 1.7% goats, and 50.4%
buffalo. Animal husbandry is placed 300-700m away from our region and is enough for the
current situation.
137
Effective animal husbandry planning is fundamental to achieving sustainable livestock
management. By addressing breeding, infrastructure, nutrition, health, sustainability,
technology adoption, economic viability, regulatory compliance, and education, stakeholders
can contribute to the long-term success of the sector, ensuring food security, economic
development, and environmental conservation.
4.4. Mode of Transportation
Graph 4.3
According to the study, 55.3% of individuals walk as their form of transportation, while just
15.9% utilize public transportation. The survey results show that the studied population has a
varied variety of travel choices, with the majority depending on walking and a considerable
minority preferring public transit. As a result, we may develop initiatives that encourage
sustainable mobility, enhance infrastructure, and satisfy the community's individual
requirements and preferences. This strategy will help to design transit systems that are
inclusive, accessible, and ecologically safe.
5 ECONOMIC PROFILE AND ENVIRONMENT

Crop yields and cultivation play a crucial role in ensuring food security and sustainability. In terms of
major crop productions, Kharif crops include Finger Millet (Mandua/Ragi Atta), Barnyard Millet
(Jhangora), Amarnath Millet (Ramdana/Cholai), Rice, Black gram split (Urad), and Soybean. On the
other hand, Rabi crops consist of Wheat, Mustard, Laayi, Gehat, Masoor dal, Horse gram, Peas, and
Barley (Jau). These crops are cultivated during specific seasons and contribute significantly to the
agricultural output. By focusing on improving crop yields and adopting efficient cultivation techniques,
we can ensure a stable and sufficient supply of these essential crops.
Fig 5.1 Barnyard Millet Fig 5.2 Finger Millet Fig 5.3 Amarnath Millet
The production of different crops per hectare varies significantly. Finger Millet (Mandua/Ragi
Atta) yields around 10-12 quintals per hectare, while Barnyard Millet (Jhangora) also produces
a similar quantity. Wheat, on the other hand, has a higher yield of 35-40 quintals per hectare,
as does irrigated Rice. Non-irrigated Rice, however, has a lower yield of 15-18 quintals per
hectare. Amarnath Millet (Ramdana/Cholai) and Masoor dal both have a yield of 12-15 quintals
per hectare. Black gram split (Urad) has a slightly lower yield of 8-10 quintals per hectare.
Barley (Jau) falls in the middle with a yield of 25-30 quintals per hectare.
138
Government initiatives and subsidies play a crucial role in promoting sustainable agriculture
practices. One such scheme is PKVY (Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana), which provides a
100% subsidy for the use of bio-fertilizers. This initiative aims to encourage farmers to adopt
organic farming methods and reduce their dependence on chemical fertilizers. Additionally, the
District Yojana also offers a 100% subsidy for the use of bio-fertilizers, further supporting
sustainable agriculture practices at the local level. The NFSM (National Food Security
Mission) provides subsidies for bio-fertilizers as well, with a 100% subsidy for demonstrations
and a 50% subsidy for those without demonstrations. These initiatives aim to promote the use
of bio-fertilizers and enhance food security in the country.
Under the National Food Security Mission (NFSM) and District Yojana, there are schemes in
place for providing seeds. These schemes include the distribution of seed minikits, which are
provided free of cost. Additionally, under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY), there is
a 50% subsidy available for seeds. These initiatives aim to support farmers in enhancing their
agricultural productivity and ensuring food security in the country. By providing access to high-
quality seeds at affordable rates, these schemes contribute to the overall development of the
agricultural sector and the welfare of farmers
The government has implemented several schemes to promote the use of agricultural
machineries in the farming sector. Under the District Yojana, farmers can avail an 80% subsidy
on small machines, making them more affordable and accessible. Additionally, the Sub-
Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM) offers a 50% subsidy on small machines,
further encouraging farmers to adopt mechanized farming practices. Moreover, SMAM
provides an impressive 80% subsidy on big machines like the Power Weeder, enabling farmers
to invest in advanced equipment for efficient and effective agricultural operations. These
schemes aim to enhance productivity, reduce labor-intensive tasks, and improve the overall
agricultural landscape in the district
There is no import and export of agricultural products in this region. The local farmers solely
rely on their own produce to sustain their needs. To ensure proper irrigation, they use hose
pipes that are connected directly from the nearby river. These hose pipes effectively distribute
water to the fields, ensuring the crops receive the necessary moisture for growth. Additionally,
tanks with a capacity of 1.5-2 hectares are constructed to store water exclusively for irrigation
purposes. This allows the farmers to have a steady supply of water, even during dry seasons,
ensuring the continuous growth and productivity of their crops.
5.1 Employment Status
As of the latest available data, approximately 79.6% of the population in Gairsain are engaged
in various forms of self-employment. This indicates a significant reliance on entrepreneurial
ventures, ranging from small businesses to
independent professionals. Government employment
plays a substantial role in the local economy,
constituting 14.3% of the employment structure. This
indicates a significant presence of public sector
employment, such as those in government offices,
educational institutions, and other public services. In
comparison, the private sector employs 6.1% of the
workforce.
Graph 5.1 Employment Status
139
6. PROPOSALS
Ward V is situated towards the western zone of the study area and has forest area as the
dominant land use. The area is covered with thicket of trees and winding paths and a lot of
untapped opportunities in the field of revenue generation through tourism aspect.
Requirements
i) Tourist attraction for revenue generation and economy boost.
ii) Renovation of existing open space/park as an elderly leisure spot cum children
playground.
iii) Utilization of the terrain favored adventure activities.
iv) Registration desk and recreation center along with basic adventure sport
training.
v) Comfortable and safe shelters for campers and adventure seekers.
6.1 Land Identification
Layer 1. Weightage
Vegetation 40%
Slope 30%
Aspect 20%
Stream order 10%
We require,
• Open Plain surface with less than 6% slope. The slope percentage cant be too high for
ziplining.
• Plain area suitable for Vegetation to provide campsites and ziplining towers
Riverside areas
suitable for camping
grounds and campsite
activities.
Land Suitablity
Analysis
140
Land suitability analysis was done through checking vegetation, Stream Order, Aspect, and
slope of the area to find the best possible spot for the development.
6.2 Identification of Developable Land
141
1
Drop-off zone
(15*15) m
2
Proposals
i) Elderly Leisure Spot and Kids Area
142
There is a built up area of 350m towards the center of the ward already being used as a light
open gym. Renovation of the area and adding of new features.
A. Features:
i. Existing open gym equipment for light exercises by all age
groups
B. Proposed:
1. Benches as resting spots and
social meet zones.
2. Slides and swings for children.
3. Extend shelter coverage
ii) Campsite and Adventure Sports

Ram Ganga River has a buffer of 150-250m from the streams which can be utilized as activity
zones.
1) Activity zone usage- Cooking, recreation, hammock use and dining space.
2) Space between campsites- 20m (10 camps)
3) Camp Area- 300 sqm (approx.) (with a campfire)
4) 4 sleeping tents per camp (2 person/tent) – (7*6) ft
5) (Drop off zones 1 and 2 ) from registration center to campsites.
6) Trekking along with experienced local guides to attractions. (Temples, Viewpoints,
etc.).
7) Trekking Trails for intensive sport. (safety gears provided)
8) Zipline area requirement- (5*5)m platform (can use trees with diameter (12inch).
We have selected two areas for campsites. With 4 campsites in space and 6 in another. Each
campsite has 4 tents with a campfire.
143
Camp 1 Camp 2
144
WARD 6
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. Project Title
Preparation of Local Area Plan for Ward 6
1.2. Vision
The LAP envisions to capture and retaining the inherent character of the area and transforming
it into an enhanced area while responding to future development potentials.
1.3. Objective
• Preserving and enhancing the Heritage and Green Cover.
• Upgrading Road Network.
• Provision of required basic infrastructure providing adequate amenities in Health,
Education and Housing.
1.4. Introduction to area
The purpose of this report is to present a local area plan for ward 6 of Gairsain. Ward 6 consists
of a total of 5 Villages, which include Gadoli, Ganwali, Khatriyana, Soniyana and Dhargir.
Ward 6 is situated Southern part of the study area. The major road running through it is the
National Highway 109 which connects the entire Kumaon region to the state and the country.
It is the major route connecting hill stations (Nainital, Almora, Ranikhet, etc.). The local area
plan has been developed based on a comprehensive analysis of the demographic profile,
existing infrastructure, and development needs of the ward.
Fig. 1.1- Base Map
146
2. DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE
By providing a comprehensive analysis of Ward 6's demographics, this report will contribute to a deeper
understanding of the ward's population characteristics, growth patterns, and the factors influencing
them. This knowledge will be instrumental in shaping informed planning and decision-making
processes that aim to improve the lives of Ward 6's residents and foster inclusive and sustainable
development.
2.1. Overview
Ward 6 exhibits a distinct demographic profile characterized by an average household size of
four, a literacy rate of 72.3%, and a significant proportion (13.7%) of the population over the
age of six. The ward's gender distribution is relatively balanced, with 690 male residents and
758 female residents. The current population is estimated at 1448, based on calculations for
2023.
2.2. Demographic Data
2.2.1. Village wise Population for 2011
Sr.no. Village Population

1. Gadoli 231
2. Ganwali 432
3. Khatriyana 127
4. Soniyana 333
5. Dhargir 325
Overall Population
The total population of ward 6 is 1448 people, distributed across the five villages. This suggests
a relatively small and evenly distributed population.
Population Density
The average population density in the ward is approximately 106 people per square kilometer.
This is lower than the average population density for the state of Uttarakhand, which is
approximately 285 people per square kilometer. The lower population density in the ward
suggests that there is more land per person, which could have implications for land use planning
and development.
Population Projection
1863
2000 1574 1611 1737
1377 1448
1196
Population
1500
1000
500
0
1991 2001 2011 2021 2023 2031 2041
Year
Graph 2.1 Population Projection
147
2.2.2. Household Size
The average household size in ward 6 has remained TOTAL HOUSEHOLD
relatively stable over the past three decades, with an
average of 4.04 persons per household in 1991, 3.90 2011 1663
persons per household in 2001, and 3.93 persons per
Year
2001 1212
household in 2011. This suggests that the increase
in the number of households is not solely due to an 1991 858
increase in population but also due to factors such
0 500 1000 1500 2000
as changes in family structures and housing
Households
arrangements.
Graph 2.2 Household

2.2.3. Gender Ratio
The overall gender ratio in ward 6 has been slightly skewed towards females over the past three
decades. In 1991, there were 1.02 females for every male. This ratio increased to 1.15 in 2001
and 1.11 in 2011. This suggests that the female population is growing at a slightly faster rate
than the male population.
Year Male Population Female Population
1991 581 615
2001 656 521
2011 690 758
Table 2.1 Population of Male and Female

Trends in Male and Female Population
Male Population: The male population in ward 6 has increased from 581 in 1991 to 690 in
2011. This represents a growth rate of approximately 21.1%. The increase in the male
population is likely due to factors such as natural increase, migration, and changes in gender-
specific mortality rates.
Female Population: The female population in ward 6 has increased from 615 in 1991 to 758
in 2011. This represents a growth rate of approximately 22.2%. The increase in the female
population is likely due to similar factors as the increase in the male population.
148
2.2.4. Literacy Rate Male v/s Female Population
Literacy Rate Male vs Female
The graph shows that the literacy rate of males in ward 100 81 81.5
6 has been consistently higher than that of females 71.8 66 71
over the past three decades. In 1991, the male literacy
50 38.6
rate was 75.9%, while the female literacy rate was
66.3%. This gap narrowed slightly over time, but the
male literacy rate remained higher, at 83.4% in 2011, 0
compared to 79.4% for females. 1991 2001 2011
Male Literate Female Literate
Graph 2.3 Literacy Rate

These figures indicate that the area has a relatively large household size, with an average of
four people per household. The literacy rate is fairly high, with over 70% of the population
being literate. The proportion of the population over 6 years of age is relatively low, indicating
a younger population. The gender ratio is slightly skewed towards females.
These demographic characteristics have several implications for the local area plan. For
instance, the large household size suggests a need for larger housing units and more spacious
living arrangements. The high literacy rate indicates a potential for education and skill
development programs. The younger population suggests a need for more schools,
playgrounds, and recreational facilities. The slightly skewed gender ratio may necessitate
gender-specific initiatives to address any potential disparities.
3. LAND USE LAND COVER

3.1. Land use 2023
LAND COVER DISTRIBUTED AREA

(2023)
Agricultural Land 54.64Ha.
Residential Land 9.23Ha.
Road Network 3.31Ha.
Water Network 3.90Ha.
Civic Forest 60.53Ha.
Reserved Forest 0Ha.
Vacant land 9.99Ha.
Map 3.1 Land Use
149
3.2. Land Use 2013
LAND COVER DISTRIBUTED AREA

(2013)
Agricultural Land 57.09Ha.
Residential Land 8.01Ha.
Road Network 3.31Ha.
Water Network 3.90Ha.
Civic Forest 53.26Ha.
Reserved Forest 0Ha.
Vacant land 7.73Ha.
Map
3.2 Land Use 2013
3.3. Land Cover Changes from 2013 to 2023

The land cover data shows that there have been some significant changes in the distribution of
land use in ward 6 between 2013 and 2023.
The most notable changes are:
Agricultural Land: There has been a decrease of approximately 2.45 hectares of agricultural
land. This could be due to factors such as urbanization, expansion of residential areas, and
conversion of land for other purposes.
Residential Land: There has been an increase of approximately 1.22 hectares of residential
land. This suggests that there has been an increase in the number of households or the size of
existing residential areas.
Civic Forest: There has been an increase of approximately 7.27 hectares of civic forest. This
is a positive development, as it indicates an increase in the amount of green space and forested
areas in the ward.
Vacant Land: There has been an increase of approximately 2.26 hectares of vacant land. This
could be due to factors such as demolition of old structures, clearance of land for future
development, or changes in land ownership.
Overall Land Cover Distribution

In 2023, agricultural land still accounts for the largest proportion of land cover in ward 6, with
54.64 hectares. This is followed by civic forest (60.53 hectares), vacant land (9.99 hectares),
150
residential land (9.23 hectares), water network (3.90 hectares), and road network (3.31
hectares)
4. SOCIA ECONOMIC ANALYSIS

The ward is distinguished by its relatively modest size, and all of it is situated inside a 200-
meter buffer zone around National Highway 109, a significant thoroughfare. This suggests a
high degree of transport accessibility and perhaps exposure to business activity related to a
major route.
The minimum rates set by the government for real estate transactions, known as circular rates,
show some intriguing patterns. Residential land that is situated within 50 metres of a major
road is worth more in circles than land that is situated between 50 and 200 metres from the
road. This suggests that homes along the main road are valued higher, perhaps as a result of
advantages in terms of visibility, accessibility, or commercial potential.
There are four categories for household income.
• Up to 25,000;
• Between 25,000 and 50,000;
• Between 50,000 and One Lakh;
• Over One Lakh
Graph
4.1 Household Income
Nearly half of all households polled, according to the survey results, make less than Rs. 25,000
annually. The income range for 33% of the households is between Rs. 25000 and Rs. 50000.
Merely 3% of the households earn more than Rs. 1 lakh.
Graph 4.2 Occupation Status

Majority of people own their own houses. • Most of the people in Ward 6 are Agricultural
Labour or are in Private service. • The household income of most of the household are upto
25k per month.
151
5. HOUSING & PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
5.1. Roads
In Ward No. 4, there are just two different kinds of roads: 4 metres, which serve as collection
roads, and 8 metres (NH-109), respectively showing in Map 6.1.1 below. There are also trails
that improve local pedestrian connectivity. The Total Road Length is 3,612 m covering total area under
Roads is 25,492 sq. m.
5.2. Transportation
Walking is preferred by 55% of individuals because it's more convenient than driving a vehicle.
People choose to walk more because of the poor state of the roads, which makes driving risky.
Travel time to hospitals outside of Gairsain is influenced by poor road conditions.
Mode of Transportation
5%
5% car
15% bicycle
55% 2-
20% wheeler
public
transport
Graph 5.2.1
Graph 6.2
Time to reach amenities
80% 70%
60% 55%
50%
45% 45%
40%
40% 30% 30%
20% 20%
20% 15% 15% 15%
10% 10% 10%
5% 5% 5% 5%
0%
School/College Kirana Health/Clinic Pharmacy Workplace
0-10mins 10-20mins 20-30mins >30mins
Graph 5.2.2
5.3. Water Supply

The Map 3.3.1 below is showing the pipeline network of water and natural streams flowing in
the ward area. The average water charge is 250 rupees, and it takes 30 minutes to get water
from outside. Water supply is 24x7 but access to water is severely limited in summer months.
During the summers the Nagar Panchayat sends private water tankers.
152
Only 15% of the built-up area has moderate water scarcity, with the remaining 75% of the built-
up region is less affected. During the summer, people primarily experience water scarcity.
Map 5.3.1 Pipeline Network

5.4. Electricity
The ward area has three transformers, varying in a power range of 63 KV to 250 KV.
3.5. Solid Waste Management
Type of SWM Collection

10%
10%
80%
Community Bin
Open Disposal
Graph 5.5.1 Types of SWM
153
Garbage disposal through burning is not prevalent in this area. The ward area lacks designated
community garbage containers.
5.6. Sanitation
Nearly 95% of homes use soak pits to release their sewage, 45% have pucca drains, and the
remaining homes have natural drains.
6.SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE
The fundamental components of a society that uphold and improve its citizens' quality of life
are referred to as social infrastructure. Social infrastructure is more intangible than physical
infrastructure, which consists of concrete assets like utilities, roads, and bridges. It consists of
the organizations, spaces, and processes that support a community's general growth, well-
being, and social cohesiveness. Building social infrastructure is crucial to raising a populace
that is engaged, educated, and in good health.
Facilities for sports, recreation, health care, education, and other distribution services are all
included in social infrastructure. Ward 6's social infrastructure is robust enough to sustain
both its residents and those of neighbouring wards in education. There are three schools, two
temples in this ward.
Graph 6.1 Graph 6.2

To encourage pedestrianization, URDPFI recommends a 300–800 m walkability buffer for
nearby facilities and amenities. Dynamic demographic trends of the area in the past two
decades since there has been a 5.4% decrease in the sex-ratio but 0.9% increase in literacy
rate of the area from 2001 to 2011 (Census 2001, 2011).
6.1 Health
One of the major determinants of labour productivity and efficiency. Considering the health,
the existing scenario, and amenities, the existing health infrastructure doesn’t fulfil the
current demand of the area. The local infrastructure fulfils the village demand based on the
154
population. Coming to the analysis of available health amenities, there is a scarcity of current
technologies and advanced options for treatment.
The number of animals in Ward 6 that are used for farming is Our survey indicates that there
are 47.8% buffalo, 0% goats, and 52.4% cattle. Enough animal husbandry is located 300–700
meters away from our area currently. To manage animals sustainably, planning for animal
husbandry must be done well. Stakeholders may help ensure food security, economic
development, and environmental conservation by addressing breeding, infrastructure,
nutrition, health, sustainability, adoption of technology, economic viability, regulatory
compliance, and education. A gap analysis has also been done to find out the gaps in the
social infrastructure of the area. The area has a strong infrastructure, but a community hall
would add to the recreational space of the people.
Infrastructure Population Served Requirement Gap
Health Care (CHC) 2500 0.015 – 0.020 -1

Ha
Health Centre 3000 0.025 – 0.067 -1

Ha
Anganwadi 5000 200- 300 sqm +0
Primary School 4000 0.2 - 0.3 Ha +2
Community Room 5000 750 Sq. m -1

(NBC)
Veterinary Centre 1000 0.05 – 0.1 Ha +1
Religious Facility 5000 400 sq. m. +1
Table 6.1- Gap Analysis
7.ENVIRONMENT AND DISASTER MANAGEMENT

Ward 6 includes 60.53 hectares of civic forest out of 141.56 hectares of land. Ward 6 has no
reserved forests. A total of 3.9 hectares are covered by the Ramganga River and its related
155
water network. The three main natural disasters affecting Ward 6 are earthquakes, seasonal
floods, and forest fires.
7.1. Flood analysis
Fig 7.1
During the monsoon, the Ramganga River's flow will double. 1.2 acres of residential land are
highly vulnerable during the rain. A moderate threat is present on 4.5 residential acres. 0.277
acres of undeveloped land are highly vulnerable. During the monsoon, 8 acres of land would
be submerged in water.
Map 7.1Flood Prone Areas
4.2. Forest fire
156
Map 7.2 Forest Fire Prone Area
There are coniferous forests and scrubs in the study area, and there is a high summertime risk
of forest fires. While civic forests exist, there is no Reserved Forest. In a civic forest that is
prone to forest fires, there are 4.6 acres of residential land. There's 0.3 acres of undeveloped
ground on a public forest that could catch fire. Additionally, we were unable to locate a fire
breaker there.
Slope Analysis
Map 7.3 Slope Analysis

Slopes between 10 and 20 percent are considered modest and appropriate for development. In
between this 10–20 percent slope is 54.4% of Grid 6. The slope of the undeveloped terrain is
between 25 and 33 percent. The steepest slopes (over 40%) are more susceptible to earthquakes
and landslides.
157
Fig 7.2 Fig 7.3
Inference
Despite the 24.6 acres of undeveloped land in the study area, the slopes make building
unfeasible. On 0.6 acres, water and forest fires also become issues. For forty percent of the
vacant area, using phased methods for farming and development will be effective. Sonyana
village has 80% of its slopes still unoccupied and most of its steep slopes.
8.PROPOSAL
8.1. Fireline
Since ward 6 has abundance of civic forest mixing with agricultural and residential areas,
without any established fire lines except Ramganga river and Road. This increases the
probability of getting situation worse in case of forest fire. The coniferous forest with pines and
shrubs has high chances of getting fire on summertime. For the control of spreading fire, we
are proposing Fireline of 4 metres parallel to ward boundary from beginning to the end. That
will be a Pucca fore line, in which shaving of entire plants. Also, we are proposing Kutcha Fire
line of 3 metres vertically on the southern side of the ward 6; Kutcha Fireline implies removal
of shrubs and grass retaining trees.
8.2. Three level fencing; To prevent the conflict between human and wild animals.
To find a natural solution for human vs animal conflict, we found fencing is the best solution.
It is proven by Dr. Lucy king in south Africa. Constructing 3 level fencing across the boundary
between residential areas, agricultural areas, and civic forest along 2.8 km. The first level is
made with Thorns and Bushes. Thorns and cactus like bushes act as natural barrier for animals.
It is an economical and environmentally friendly approach. Gives aesthetically appealing
appearance too. E.g.: Firethorn, Crown of thorns, Bougainvillea. Second Level made up of
solar fencing. Providing a shock of 2500v from solar energy by fixing solar panels on the fence.
I t will give electricity for households also. Third level Honeybee fencing Keeping the fear of
animals towards honeybee as defence. It is done by fixing bee boxes on the fence. Provide
environmental benefits and economic benefits through apiculture. Two level fencing except
honeybee fencing is fixing on the boundary between forest and road of 2.5 km.
158
WARD 7
1.INTRODUCTION
Preparation of Local Area Plan for Ward 7
1.1 Vision
Development and growth of Gairsain as a Capital city from the viewpoint of sustainable,
economic, cultural and environmental perspective.
1.2 Objective
: To providing adequate resources and amenities for housing, education, and health.
: To keep the environment sustainability growth for forest area, water bodies.
: To Conserve the natural resources.
: To Develop terrain and connectivity to other locations.
1.3 Introduction to area:
Map 1.1: Base map of Ward-7
This report tells that a local area plan has been developed for ward 7 of Gairsain based on a
analysis of the demographic profile, existing infrastructure, and development needs of the
ward. Ward 7 consists of a total of 4 Villages, which include Bausar, Sainji, Kothar and Silangi.
Ward 7 is situated in the most southern part of the study area. The major road running through
it is the National Highway 109 which connects the entire Kumaon region to the state. It is the
major route connecting hill stations (Nainital, Almora, Ranikhet, etc.). The local area plan has
been developed based on a comprehensive analysis of the demographic profile, existing
infrastructure, and development needs of the ward.
160
1.4 Demographic Profile
This report contributes to a better understanding of population characteristics, growth patterns,
and factors influencing them by providing a comprehensive analysis of the demographic
characteristics of Ward 7.
This knowledge helps shape informed planning and decision-making processes aimed at
improving the lives of Ward 7 residents and promoting inclusive and sustainable development.
Total area of ward 7 is 116.6 hec.
Village wise Demographic data for 2023
Sr.no. Village Population No. Of Household
1. bausar 588 147
2. Sainji 728 182
3. Kothar 396 99
4. Silangi 476 119
Table 1.1: village wise demographic data
1.5 Overall Population

The total population of ward is 2188 people, distributed across the four villages. This suggests
a relatively small and evenly distributed population.
1.6 Population Density
The ward has an average population density of 18.18 persons per hectare. This is less than the
state of Uttarakhand's average population density, which is roughly 285 persons per square
kilometre. The ward's lower population density implies that there is more land per person,
which may have an impact on development and planning related to land use.
1.7 Household Size
Over the previous three decades, the average household size in ward 7 has stayed mostly
consistent at 4 people per household. This shows that the number of households has increased
for a variety of reasons, including shifting family forms and housing arrangements, in addition
to population growth.
Based on these data, it can be inferred that the typical household size in the area is somewhat
large, four persons. More than 70% of people are literate, which is a rather high percentage. A
youthful population is shown by the comparatively low percentage of the population over the
age of six. There is a minor bias towards females in the gender ratio.
There are various ways in which the local area plan is affected by these demographic features.
For example, the high size of the household indicates that more roomy living arrangements and
larger housing units are required. The high percentage of literacy suggests a need for training
and skill-building initiatives. There should be additional playgrounds, schools, and recreational
spaces, according to the younger population. Initiatives targeted specifically at addressing
gender inequities may be necessary in light of the slightly skewed gender ratio.
This demographic report provides a snapshot of Ward 7's population and key aspects, offering insight
into its socio-economic landscape and setting the groundwork for future development strategies.
161
2 LULC DISTRIBUTION
2.1. Land Use / Land Cover 2013
The given land use / land cover is digitized using the google satellite imagery of the year 2013
of Gairsain Nagar Panchayat.
LAND USE 2013
3.4
2.7
Residential
Forest 15
Agriculture
Fallow Land 57.2 38.3

Barren Land
Map 2.1. LULC 2013 Ward 7
Map shows the land use and land cover 2013 of ward 7 of Gairsain Nagar Panchayat. Out of
the total area 116.0 Ha, 34% of the area (57.2Ha) belongs to Agriculture land, followed by
22.9% belongs to the Forest land (38.3 Ha) and remaining 43.8% belongs to other different
land covers.
Sr. No. Categorization 2013 (Ha) %
1 Residential 15.0 9.0
2 Forest 38.3 22.9
3 Agriculture 57.2 34.3
4 Fallow 2.7 1.6
5 Barren 3.4 2.0
Total 116.0 100
162
2.2. Land Use / Land Cover 2023
LAND USE 2023

2.7 3%
15%
Residential
Forest
Agriculture
Fallow Land 47%
33%
Barren Land
Map 2.2. LULC 2023 Ward 7
Map shows the land use and land cover 2023 of ward 7 of Gairsain Nagar Panchayat. Out of
the total area 116.0 Ha, 32.6% of the area (54.4 Ha) belongs to Agriculture land, followed by
22.8% belongs to the Forest land (38.1 Ha) and remaining 44.6% belongs to other different
land covers.
Sr. No. Categorization 2023 ( Ha) % Land Use
Change from
2013 to
2023(Ha)
1 Residential 18.0 10.8 + 3.0
2 Forest 38.1 22.8 -0.2
3 Agriculture 54.4 32.6 -2.8
4 Fallow 2.7 1.6 0
5 Barren 3.4 2.0 0
Total 116.0 100.0
163
From 2013 to 2023, the residential area increased from 15.0 Ha to 18.0 Ha , and the agriculture
land and forest land decreased by 2.8 Ha and 0.2 Ha respectively.
2.3 Land Ownership
The given ownership map is digitized using the primary data collected from Gairsain Nagar
Panchayat.
OWNERSHIP
35%
Private
Government
65%
Map 2.3 Land Ownership Ward 7
Map shows the ownership of land in ward 7 of Gairsain Nagar Panchayat. Out of 116.0 Ha,
65% of land belongs to Private owners and the rest 35% land belongs to the government.
Sr. No. Categorization Area %
1 Private 75.4 65
2 Government 40.6 35
Total 116.0 100.0
164
3.SOCIO ECONOMIC PROFILE
Ward 7 a diverse economic fabric shaped by the occupational

choices of its residents. The data reveals a nuanced scenario, with 26.7% of the population
relying on agriculture, while the remaining 73.3% engage in various other occupations.
Agricultural Dependency:
The 26.7% of individuals depending on agriculture exemplify the enduring connection to the
land, reflecting traditional practices that have sustained communities for generations.
Agricultural activities in Gairsain likely encompass crop cultivation, horticulture, and livestock
rearing. The reliance on agriculture could be influenced by factors such as geographic location,
climate, and cultural traditions that shape the local way of life.
63.3% of individuals earning between 25,000 to 50,000, 27.3%

earning up to 25,000, and 9.1% falling in the income bracket of 50,000 to 1 lakh.
The predominant income bracket in Gairsain encompasses individuals earning between 25,000
to 50,000, constituting 63.3% of the population. This range likely represents a significant
portion of the working-class population, including various occupations from agriculture to non-
agricultural sectors. The prevalence of this income band suggests a community where a
substantial majority falls within a mid-range economic stratum, navigating the balance between
meeting basic needs and aspiring for financial stability. The 27.3% of individuals earning up to
25,000 constitute a substantial segment facing unique financial challenges. The 9.1% of
individuals falling in the income bracket of 50,000 to 1 lakh represent a comparatively smaller
but potentially diverse group.
165
4. HOUSING AND PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
4.1Building height
Also, through the study of the height of the buildings, it was seen that buildings vary in height
which are G, G+1. The general height being G.
• The majority of buildings in the area are G

• Mixed use buildings in the area are made up in a way that the ground floor serves as a
commercial building and the terrace as parking space.
166
Most respondents, a substantial 90%, reported living in their own houses. This statistic
underscores a prevailing trend towards homeownership in Gairsain. Homeownership often
signifies stability, financial investment, and a long-term commitment to a particular locality.
The significance of this finding lies in its potential implications for community development
and the overall well-being of residents.
Conversely, approximately 10% of respondents indicated that they were residing in rented
accommodations. This minority, though smaller in number, represents a segment of the
population that may prioritize flexibility, financial considerations, or other factors that make
renting a more suitable option for their living arrangement. Understanding the dynamics of this
group contributes to a more comprehensive picture of the community's housing landscape.
Infrastructure comprises activities such as transport, water supply, electricity, sanitation and
sewerage, solid waste collection, and disposal. Infrastructure works on a wide number of
determinants of economic development. Infrastructure creates the conditions on which the
superstructure of economic activities is built up. Physical infrastructure is directly concerned
with the needs of services that meet the basic needs of society like drinking water, sewerage,
sanitation, electricity, etc.
4.2 Roads
The existing road infrastructure shows us important aspects like connectivity and traffic
movement within an area. Road classification tells us about the function and purpose of the
road that provides shape to an area.
The ward is connected to the town through the national highway and it is the entrance to
Gairsain. The rest of the area is connected through local roads or trails.
Overall, the coverage of roads is low within the site which may be due to
• Presence of large agriculture fields or forest area.
• Presence of kutcha roads.
• Low traffic flow in the site leading to low width roads.
4.3 Water Supply

Our study villages are mainly facilitated through house connections and hand pumps. The sources of
water supply are: River, House connection and hand pump. It takes less than 30 minutes to fetch water
from their respective residences since the river is very close by. The water is available to the residents
twice a day for only less than 2 hours a day. Meters are installed in 57% of the houses and the average
water charges per month are 300 rupees.
167
Map 4.1 Water Supply and Pipeline
Key Findings:
• There are Hand Pumps across all villages.
• The water is only available for less than 2 hours a day.
• The quantity of the water supply remains the same in all seasons.
4.4 Sanitation
According to the primary survey conducted, in the villages of Silangi, Sainji and Bausar, there
is no open defecation and all households have their own latrines. The quality of existing
household toilets is considered to be average. The households are connected to septic tanks for
the discharge of the sewage. The drainage system in ward 7 is only 63.64% pucca and 36.36%
is kutcha.
4.5 Electricity
There is full electricity coverage in all three villages of the ward. The average monthly bill goes
up to 433 rupees. The Substation, in Dhunarghat, is only 2.5 kilometres away from the ward.
The Nagar Panchayat collects garbage daily and provides a door-to-door service to all.
However, there are some households who do not have pucca roads to connect them to the main
road and there is no path for the vehicle to follow. This causes the residents to burn their waste
who live farther from the main road. Some also dispose their bio-degradable waste making a
compost pit. The only concern is the burning of the waste in the higher, lesser accessible area
of the ward.
5 SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE
Social Infrastructure is a subset of the infrastructure sector and typically includes assets that
accommodate social services, examples of Social Infrastructure Assets include schools,
universities, hospitals, recreational space and community space
168
Map 5.1 Social Infrastructure Map
5.1 Education
Ward 7 has 1 Primary school and 1 Secondary school within the area. The existing area of the
school is 0.30 and 0.5. respectively. The Education infrastructure of ward 7 is strong y. The
Education infrastructure of ward 7 is adequate for the residence.
5.2 Healthcare
In ward 7 there is 1 clinic, which is not adequate according to URDPFI guidelines.
Category Number (Existing) Population served per unit Required area (in Ha) Existing area (in Ha)
Primary School 1 4000 0.20 to 0.30 0.30
Secondary school 1 15000 0.30 to 0.50 0.50
Clinic 1 2500 0.015 to 0.020 0.010
Post office 1 10,000 0.10 to 0.15 0.01
Table.5.1: Gap Analysis
169
6. ENVIRONMENT
An aspect-slope map simultaneously shows the aspect (direction) and degree (steepness) of
slope for a terrain (or other continuous surface). The given maps are prepared using the DEM
file obtained from Google Satellite and then processed in Qgis. The aspect map is representing
the direction with different colours. The slope map is categories in degree of slope
Map 6.1. Aspect Map
Map 6.2. Slope Map
170
7.FUTURE STRATEGIES
7.1 Road Widening
The road passing through ward 7 is a national highway (NH-109). As per the Regulations in
the IRC codes, the required widening.
Width of ROW Width of Carriageway
ROAD Existing Proposing Existing Proposing

CATEGORY
NH 6m 10.5m 3.5m 7.5m

Table 7.1 Road Widths
Figure 7.1 Road Width

The residents of the land which will be under the road widening area will get a compensation.
Compensation of land is decided as per the provisions of the Right to Fair Compensation and
Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 which is 2 to 4
times of the determined market value of the land (2 times in urban and 4 times in rural).
7.2 Jala Jeevan Mission
Drinking water supply schemes of Rs. 164.03 Crore were approved under Jal Jeevan Mission
by Uttarakhand in the State-level scheme sanctioning committee (SLSSC) meeting held on
23rd December 2021.
This scheme can extend to further provide access to safe drinking water for 24 hours a day.
Community Bins can be placed for the residents who cannot access the daily waste collection
services provided by the Nagar panchayat, since they burn their non-biodegradable waste.
171
Figure 7.2 Community Bin
7.3 Farmer’s Merket and Fate Market
A recreational area of 0.40ha where all the local can get together and sell their produce which
can be agricultural or handicrafts, weekly or monthly. This area will also work as a Children’s
play area when not in use as a farmer’s market or fate market.
The Farmers' Market in Uttarakhand is a new concept therefore are established in 2018. A
farmer’s market where the farmers do not need a Food License. A Farmer's market is not
required to register as a cottage food operation.
Other facilities that can be provided in the Market:
• Drinking Water
• Public Toilet
• Canteen for food and tea
• Drainage
• Plastic boxes to collect rotten fruits and vegetables.
A Fate Market is where residents can sell their handicraft items. This can work as a Souvenir
shop as well as a business opportunity for the locals. A percentage of the commissions can go
towards maintaining the area. This area will also work as a tourist attraction and is an
opportunity to have economic development in Gairsain.
172

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REPORT

LOCAL AREA PLANNING- GAIRSAIN

PART 2: SECTORAL ANALYSIS

PART 3: WARD-WISE LOCAL AREA PLAN

1.2 Study Area Selection

1.3 Literature Review

Road Network and Steep Slopes

Figure 1.1 Methodology

2.1 Geography and Connectivity:

Location of city Importance Distance (by road)

Map 1.1: Relative location of Gairsain Map 1.2: Basemap of Gairsain

1.2 Socio-demographic Landscape:

1.3 Environmental Treasures and Risks:

1.4 Sustainable Development Roadmap:

3.1 Population Overview

3.2 Age Distribution

3.3 Education and Literacy

3.4 Occupations and Economic Activities:

3.5 Infrastructure and Amenities

4.2 Key Findings

Graph 4.1 Building Height

5.1 Health Care

5.3 Animal Husbandry

The vision of Department of Animal Husbandry, Uttarakhand is –Intensifying & Creating

Sn. Departmental Services Block level annual Other remarks

Sn. No Scheme Name Number of animals Criteria for Departmental Beneficiaries’

BPL 80% 20%

Ward Cattle Buffalo Goat Total

Table 5.3 Animal Census, 2023

Map 5.2 Animal Census

Map 7.1 Road width variation

6.2. Water Supply

Graph 6.2 Frequency of water supply

Graph 6.3 Duration of water supply

Map 6.2 showing Water Streams

Graph 6.4 Presence of water meter

1. Fig 7.1 showing power supply network Source: Electricity dept.

6.4 Solid Waste Management

Graph 7.7 Sewer Discharge type

Graph 7.6 Type of Drainage

7. MOBILITY AND TRANSPORT

7.1.1. The existing road infrastructure in Gairsain, Uttarakhand

Map 7.1. Road Hierarchy Map of Gairsain

7.1.2. The existing road infrastructure in Gairsain, Uttarakhand, India consists of

Map 8.2 20m NH proposal

The proposed widening of NH-109 is necessary to address several issues:

Walk Bicycle Car (alone)

7.3.3 Cost of Bus Fare: -

• Most of the sample population (59%) is either very

• A significant portion of the population (31%) is neutral 31%

Very Satisfied Satisfied

46.63% 46.23% 45.28%

Graph Graph Graph 8.1.4: 2011 Census

8.2 Household Income

Graph Household Income Distribution from Primary Survey in Gairsain Town.

8.3 Market Profile

8.5 Food Processing

Over 100 people in 16 villages in the Gairsain block

Figure 8.6.1: Silkworm Polyhouse, Gairsain

2. Ma Pathavari Nanda Thok

Map 8.8.1 Circle Rates of Agricultural Land

Fig.9.1 Assets of the Forest Department, Nagar Panchayat, Gairsain.

Fig.9.2 Visit to the Forest Department, Nagar Panchayat, Gairsain.

9.3 Land Cover Map