Chapter No II - Shodhganga : a reservoir of Indian...

Chapter No II

PROFILE OF THE STUDY

AREA

Introduction

2.1 Position of the study area

2.1.1 Highlights and Historical Background

2.1.2 Geographical Situation

2.1.3 Geographical Location and Area

2.1.4 Index Map

2.1.5 Name of Administrative Boundaries (191 Villages)

2.1.6 Circle Wise Villages

2.2 Physical Profile

2.2.1 Geology

2.2.1.1 Geology Map

2.2.2 Topography

2.2.2.1 Digital Elevation Model (DEM)

2.2.3 Contour Line

2.2.3.1 Contour Map

2.2.4 Drainage Pattern

2.2.4.1 Map of Drainage Pattern

2.2.5 Water Bodies

2.2.5.1 Distribution of Surface Water bodies Map

2.2.6 Soil Types

2.2.6.1 Soil Types Map

2.2.7 Climatic Condition

2.2.7.1 Agro-Climatic Zones

2.2.7.2 Agro-Ecological Situations

2.2.7.3 Temperature

2.2.7.4 Rainfall

2.2.7.4.1 Average Rainfalls 1991 to 2011(mm)

2.2.7.5 Wind

2.3 Natural Vegetation

2.3.1 Total Vegetation

2.4 Wild Life (Livestock)

2.5 Resume

2.6 References

LAND USE AND CROPPING PATTERN CHANGES - A CASE STUDY OF AKOLE TAHASIL IN AHMEDNAGAR DISTRICT (M.S)

22

Chapter II

PROFILE OF THE STUDY AREA

Introduction:

Akole Tahasil is located at western part of Ahmednagar District, in the state of

Maharashtra. It is well surrounded with the mountains of Sahyadries. Pravara, Mula,

Adhala and Mhalungi are important rivers, rises in different places of study area. The

famous Temple of Agasti Rushi and Amruteshwar is situated in this tahasil. The

tahasil has been divided into 149 (31-groups and 118-separate) Grampanchayats.

Akole tahasil is also covered by co-operative sugar factory, dairy milk, rice mills,

banks and various co-operatives thrive here. Though, citizens learn quarternal english,

hindi, marathi and urdu education in schools, Marathi is the common language for

daily communication. The economy of the Tahasil is driven mainly by agriculture of

sugarcane, rice, horticulture, floriculture and various major cash crops.

2.1 Position of the study area:

Geographically Ahmednagar district is the largest district of Maharashtra. The

location of this district is a somewhat central position in the state of Maharashtra. At

present it is divided into 14 blocks or tahasil and 4 Administrative divisions

(Ahmednagar, Karjat, Shrirampur and Sangamner) with a total of 1585 villages. Out

of them 579 villages are kharip whereas 1006 villages are rabbi villages. Ahmednagar

is most advanced and one of the oldest district of the Western Maharashtra and it is

commonly called as „The Land of Saints‟. The total population of the district is 45,

43,083 according to census 2011 out of which 86.8% is settled in rural areas and the

density of population is 266 per square km.

Ahmednagar district is famous for various geographical, historical, religious

and cultural heritages. There are hilly off-shoots of the Sahyadris in western part of

the district. They are called Kalsubai, Adula, Baleshwar and Harishchandragarh hilly

ranges. The Highest Peak of Kalsubai (5427 feet or 1646 mt‟s) in the Sahyadris, lies

in study area in the district. Other peaks are Harishchandragarh, Ratangarh, Kulang

and Ajuba etc. situated in the study area. We see the Vitha-Ghat and Randha falls are

on the way of Kolhar-Ghoti state highway no. 44. Pravara, Adhala and Mula are main

rivers provides irrigation facilities. Bhandardara and Nilwande are Major dams,


23

Adhala is medium, Waki, Sakat, Ambit, Balthan, Titwi, Bori, Belapur-Badgi,

Kothale, Sangavi, Padoshi, Shirpunje, Devthan are important minor irrigation dams

and Khadki, Sakirwadi, Siswad, Kotul, Bori, Pimpalgaon Khand, Lingdev, Chass,

Pimpaldari, Padalne, Lahit, Dhamangaon-Pat are also the K.T. Weirs formed in the

study area.

2.1.1 Highlights and Historical Background:

The western part of the study area in Ahmednagar district is endowed with

great natural scenery. In order to develop the potential of this area consisting of

Bhandardara dam, Kalsubai, Ghatghar, Ratangarh and Harishchandra-garh etc. the

environment development corporation sanctioned Rs.15 corers. This area has a great

tourism potential as it has unique diversification in culture as well as geographical

variations and this will differently attract tourists to visit this area. Tourism areas

cover a wide variety of destination points in this area i.e. scenic beauty or recreational

areas, Hill resorts-Bhandardara, Adventure tourism-Kalsubai, Harishchandra fort,

Kalsubai Sanctuaries and Ratangarh.

Till today, in the field of geographical study of this area, none of the

geographer has done any research work e.g. cultural, historical, geographical,

environmental, tourism, botanical and zoological, economical etc. This area has a

great tourism potential; it has a unique diversification in cultural as well as

geographical variations and this is differently attractive culture and the way of life. It

is mountainous region with full of natural beauty, wild animals and birds as well as

waterfalls. The local area is associated with adivasi people such as Thakar, Warli,

Katkari, Mahadev-koli etc. and their life style is totally different from the non-tribal

people. This tahasil has some characteristics. Such as:

Akole tahasil of Ahmednagar district is divided into four categories i.e. a. totally

natural eco-tourist centers, b. religious tourist centers, c. Historical tourist centers

and d. Agro based tourist centers.

Total 191 villages and four revenue circles namely Rajur, Kotul, Akole and

Samsherpur around study area.

The entire hilly region formed by basaltic rock.


24

The famous peak of Kalsubai (Height of 1646mt) is located 10 km away from

Bhandardara dam to the north. It is difficult to climb and it covers forest area of

630.67 hectors. Every year approximately 70 to 80 thousands tourists visit here.

The Harishchandragarh (Height of 1422 meter) lies at the apex of mountain or

hill where the watershed catchments area of river Bhima and Godawari drainage

system is spread over. The area is covered by dense green and deciduous trees.

It is difficult terrain, famous tourist centre and good point to enjoy trekking.

These places are famous for the mountaineers, scholars, scientists, students of

geography, architecture. As well as students of history also visits here.

Ratangarh is (Height of 1297 meter) declared forest area in 1986 as 517.21

hectare. Many small tributaries, brooks, streams gather at base of Ratangarh

giving rise of Pravara River. Old Temple built in Hemadpanthi style in 12th

century by the Yadavas.

Vishramgarh (different names like Aunda, Patta, Kanwai, Jatayu garh) and

Tahakari situated at the foot of mountain. It is one of the oldest forts from yadavas

period and medieval history is one of the well known centers for services and

combat battle place of Maratha power. Here Shivaji Maharaj took rest after he had

looted Surat market. Since then this fort is known as Vishram Garh (Height of

1200 meters).

Forts of Harishchandragarh, Visram garh, Ratangarh and various old historical

monuments. As is presumed all forts are located on hills and mountains.

To the west of Bhandardara dam Village Ratanwadi (distance of 20 km) at the

foot of Sahyadri Mountain, located on the bank of Pravara River. Temple of God

Shivshankar is built in the style of ancient Hemadpanthi architecture. There are

magnificent sculptures curved on temple. The temple is called Amruteshwar.

The western location of Kokan kadaas rising upwards solid hill, which seems like

a wall (Dyke) and so denoted as cliff in geography. Kalsubai and Baleshwar

mountain ranges of 900 mt deep and straight cliff (Borders of three districts

Ahmednagar, Nashik and Thane).

Bhandardara is hill station in the study area. The climate is slightly cool. This

place is famous for youth adventure, enjoy for rainy holidays vacations and rainy

season. Tours can be arranged in the month of July to September.


25

The Dam Bhandardara is constructed across the river at Bhandaradara (Wilson

Dam, Storage capacity 11039 mcm). For the natural scenery, the dam is very

attractive place in Maharashtra state.

The shadow of north side hills reflects on the Bhandardara dam water, known as

Umbrella falls nearby dam wall.

Forts, old temples and Picnic points played an important role in shaping the socio-

economic pattern of the study area.

Agar for Agasti Rishi temple (Place where Bhagwan Shriram meet Agasti rishi),

Kalas for Kalseshwar temple (A beautiful temple on a mountain surrounded by

Pravara river) and Kotul for Kotuleshwar fair is in study area.

The river bed of Pravara is formed by soft and hard rock near Randha Fall (60

meter deep valley). The water from the water fall looks milky, white and it

sprinkles at long distance. To the south, at Randha, 50 meters deep hanging valley

of „U‟ shaped formed due to erosion-work of river water.

The Pravara river rises on the eastern slopes of the Sahyadris between Kulang and

Ratangarh.

The Mhalungi river rises on the south eastern slopes of the Sahyadris between

Ratangarh and Harishchandragarh.

The Adhala river rises in the north of Akole or the slopes of Patta and Mahakali.

Bari is the birth place of river Krushnwanti which is tributary of river Pravara.

Randha-Kondani Hydro Electric Power Project, 1988, Capacity of 12 MW,

Another place 9 km away kondani project having 34 MW is also constructed in

August 2001.

Udanchan Hydro Power project having a capacity 250 mw. Government of

Maharashtra has sanctioned Rs. 725.81 corer for this project.

Separating grains of rice from husk by pounding and gathering medicinal plants

are the small scale industries in study area.

Scheduled Tribe people are residing in hilly area pre dominates are Bhill, Takar

and Koli-Mahadev etc.

Bidi rolling (Tobacco smoke) is carried on in Akole and Sangamner tahasil.

Sugar factory is located at Agastinagar (Agasti S.S.K Ltd. Jamgaon Akole

tahasil).

Ahmednagar District Central Co-Operative Bank (ADCC) is well known as

biggest Co-Operative bank in Asia.


26

Amrutsagar Sahakari Doodh Utpadak Sangh, Ltd. Akole (Pasterised milk).

A railway line is proposed to be laid down connecting all tourist places with

Aurangabad by Deccan Odyssey Railway.


27

2.1.2 Geographical Situation:

Map No. 2.1


28

2.1.3 Geographical Location and Area:

Akole is a Tahasil place in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra state. It is well

surrounded with the mountains of Sahyadris. Its latitudinal extent is between 190 15

‟

14‟‟ North to 19

0 44

‟ 59

‟‟ North and longitudinal extent is from 73

0 37

‟ 00

‟‟ East to 74

0

07‟ 24

‟‟ East. It is surrounded by Sangamner tahasil is west, to the east Thane district,

to the north by Nashik district and to the south pune district. Total Villages are 191

and 4 (Four) Revenue Circles namely Rajur, Akole, Samsherpur and Kotul. Total

Geographical area of tahasil is 1, 49,990.31 hector. The study area occupies 8.73

percent areas of the district respectively and area under the forest is 41,698 hectors.

Agriculture land is 98,712 hectors. The climate of the tahasil is hot and dry. It is

characterized by a hot summer and generally dry except during the south-west

monsoon season and average rainfall is 508.9mm per year. However, in the study area

consists of two zones namely the Transition Zone (receiving 700-1250 mm rainfall)

and Hilly Zone (receiving 1250-3250 mm rainfall). Except study area, the entire

Ahmednagar district falls under drought-prone area.


29

2.1.4 Index Map:

Map No. 2.2


30

2.1.5 Name of Administrative Boundaries (Total 191 Villages):

Sr.

No.

Tahasil

Village Name

Sr.

No.

Tahasil

Village Name

Sr.

No.

Tahasil Village

Name

Sr.

No.

Tahasil Village

Name

1 Badgi 45 Lingdeo 89 Vithe 133 Takali

2 Jachakwadi 46 Pimpri 90 Terungan 134 Dhokri

3 Jambhale 47 Lavhali Otur 91 Mutkhel 135 Mehenduri

4 Chaitanyapur 48 Thakarwadi 92 Kalas Kh. 136 Udadawane

5 Belapur 49 Pimp.Khand 93 Dhumalwadi 137 Ghatghar

6 Khuntewadi NV 50 Ghoti 94 Chitalwedhe 138 Tambhol

7 Esarthav 51 Paithan 95 Parakhatpur 139 Pendshet

8 Garwadi 52 Khadki Kh. 96 Navalewadi 140 Dongarwadi

9 Bramhanwada 53 Khadki Bk. 97 Sugaon Bk. 141 Panjare

10 Kalamb 54 Shiswad 98 Kelungan 142 Pimp. Nipani

11 Keli Otur 55 Shirpunje Kh. 99 Aurangpur 143 Pimp.Nakvinda

12 Gode Wadi 56 Shidawad 100 Guhire 144 Manhere

13 Karandi 57 Purushawadi 101 Rajur 145 Sherankhel

14 Morwadi N.V 58 Shelad 102 Ratanwadi 146 Gardani

15 Pimpaldari 59 Ambit 103 Katalapur 147 Babhul Wandi

16 Satewadi 60 Pangari 104 Bhandardara 148 Deogaon

17 Chand Suraj 61 Sherewadi 105 Agar 149 Ganore

18 Manyale 62 Mogras 106 Akole 150 Bari

19 Keli Kotul 63 Wanjulshet 107 Indori 151 Poparewadi

20 Phophasandi 64 Dham. Pat 108 Samrad 152 Ambevangan

21 Pisewadi 65 Kumshet 109 Rumbhodi 153 Ladagaon

22 Umbare Wadi 66 Gondoshi 110 Unchkhadak bk 154 Pabhulwandi

23 Nachanthav 67 Dhagewadi 111 Nilwande 155 Muthalane

24 Lahit Kh. 68 Balthan 112 Nimbral 156 Waranghushi

25 Chas 69 Sakirwadi 113 Shinganwadi 157 Virgaon

26 Palsunde 70 Chinchavane 114 Kohandi 158 Shenit Bk.

27 Abitkhind 71 Shirpunje Bk. 115 Rede 159 Kombhalne

28 Kothale 72 Padalane 116 Malegaon 160 Dongargaon

29 Vihir 73 Kauth Wadi 117 Shendi 161 Senit Kh. N.V

30 Tale 74 Baravwadi 118 Khanapur 162 Hivargaon

31 Lahit Bk. 75 Dhamanvan 119 Sugaon Kh. 163 Khirvire

32 Bholewadi 76 Maveshi 120 Kumbhefal 164 Jaynawadi

33 Somalwadi 77 Vashere 121 Kodani 165 Dagadwadi

34 Shinde 78 Manik Ozar 122 Randha Kh. 166 Nagawadi N.V

35 MahadeowadiNv 79 Bhojadarawadi 123 Digambar 167 Ghodsarwadi

36 Waghapur 80 Savarkute 124 Mhaladevi 168 Deothan

37 Bori 81 Koltembhe 125 Murshet 169 Tahakari

38 Lavhali Kotul 82 Nirgudwadi 126 Waki 170 Samsherpur

39 Kohane 83 Jamgaon 127 Pimparkane 171 Sawargaonpat

40 Shilvandi 84 Dham. Awari 128 Shelvihire 172 Pimpaldharwadi

41 Pachnai 85 Sarowar N.V 129 Titavi 173 Bitaka

42 Wagdari 86 Manoharpur 130 UnchkadakKh 174 K.Rumhanwadi

43 Kotul 87 Ambad 131 Bahirwadi 175 Sangvi

44 Ambhol 88 Agastinagar 132 Chichondi 176 Padoshi


31

Sr.

No.

Tahasil

Village

Name

Sr.

No.

Tahasil

Village Name

Sr.

No.

Tahasil

Village

Name

177 Ekdare 183 Pachapattawadi 189 Kalas Bk.

178 Chandgirwadi 184 Shivajinagar 190 Sultanpur

179 Pedhewadi 185 Jahagirdarwadi 191 Khetewadi

180 Kokanwadi 186 Randha Bk.

181 Mhalungi 187 Ambikanagar

182 Tirde 188 Kalewadi

Table No. 2.1

(Source: Panchayat Samiti, Akole, 2011)

2.1.6 Circle Wise Villages:

Table No. 2.2(i) Akole Circle

Sr.

No

Name of

Village

Geog. Area

(Hectares)

Sr.

No Name of Village

Geog. Area

(Hectares)

1 Takali 602.67 29 Pim. Nakwinda 1488.8

2 Dhokari 273.46 30 Sherankhel 827.94

3 Aagar 33.48 31 Babhulwandi 943.27

4 Gardani 1331.40 32 Digamber 778.11

5 Khanapur 286.67 33 Mhaladevi 619.90

6 Ambikanagar 587.01 34 Vitha 404.12

7 Pim. Khand 624.46 35 Chitalwedhe 359.00

8 Pagari 1014.93 36 Nimbral 481.00

9 Dhagewadi 341.93 37 Nilwande 384.00

10 Sherewadi 278.44 38 Bhojdarawadi 323.52

11 Shidwad 422.00 39 Nirgudwadi 146.12

12 Chass 1212.10 40 Rumbhodi 946.00

13 Lahit Bk 884.85 41 Indori 439.75

14 Lahit Kd 732.35 42 Mehanduri 914.00

15 Lingdev 1106.40 43 Bahirwadi 234.00

16 Thakarwadi 598.00 44 Unchkhadak Bk 331.00

17 Chandsuraj 128.33 45 Unchkhadak Kd 645.00

18 Pipmaldari 1511.28 46 Dhamangaon Paat 1440.00

19 Washere 739 47 Mogras 892.56

20 Manoharpur 305 48 Padalane 943.04

21 Parkhatpur 444 49 Shelad 793.59

22 Kalas Bk 1221.18 50 Aklole 964.00

23 Sugaw BK 568.13 51 Navalewadi 115.54

24 Sultanpur 170.79 52 Dhumalwadi 466.00

25 Kumbhefal 816.13 53 Agastinagar 395.97

26 Rede 251.58 54 Dhamangaon Awari 1841.22

27 Sugaw Kd 396.64 55 Ambad 1056.38

28 Kalas Kd 418.97 56 Aurangpur 257.50

Total Area of Akole Circle: 36624.51 Hectares.


32

Table No. 2.2(ii)

Kotul Circle

Sr.

No

Name of

Village

Geog. Area

(Hectares)

Sr.

No Name of Village

Geog. Area

(Hectares)

57 Belapur 2482.87 79 Godewadi 513.35

58 Badgi 403.27 80 Satewadi 837.57

59 Jachakwadi 603.02 81 Khetewadi 284.32

60 Chaitanyapur 704.29 82 Palsunde 878.70

61 Bramhanwada 2971.62 83 Umberewadi 241.30

62 Jambhale 897.71 84 Morwadi 825.09

63 Kalechiwadi 630.00 85 Phopsandi 1534.43

64 Khuntewadi 353.44 86 Ambhol 815.55

65 Mannyale 683.09 87 Paithan 874.94

66 Pisewadi 473.78 88 Shilwandi 303.77

67 Kalamb 947.56 89 Mahadevwadi 497.66

68 Karandi 730.62 90 Kohane 492.12

69 Waghapur 1012.66 91 Somalwadi 435.14

70 Bori 540.34 92 Vihir 503.04

71 Kotul 2164.41 93 Shinde 148.60

72 Bholewadi 245.56 94 Tale 858.39

73 Ambitkhind 417.54 95 Kothale 602.00

74 Nachanthav 413.83 96 Lahan Otuar 443.00

75 Keli-Otur 613.96 97 Lahan Kotul 1140.25

76 Keli-Kotul 638.34 98 Pachnai 2558.33

77 Yesarthav 515.93 99 Wagdari 427.802

78 Garwadi 673.93 100 Ghoti 471.38

101 Pimpari 390.37

Total Area of Kotul Circle: 35194.89 Hectares.


33

Table No. 2.2(iii)

Rajur Circle

Sr.

No

Name of

Village

Geog. Area

(Hectares)

Sr.

No

Name of

Village

Geog. Area

(Hectares)

102 Waranghushi 1790.20 127 Kelungan 813.72

103 Bari 630.67 128 Malegaon 472.51

104 Jahagirdarwadi 440.64 129 Rajur 1379.05

105 Chinchodi 881.15 130 Kohondi 601.7

106 Pendshet 462.05 131 Jamgaon 472.82

107 Waki 422.42 132 Sakirwadi 566.11

108 Manhere 768.74 133 Kouthwadi 377.48

109 Ranad Kd 151.62 134 Gondoshi 592.00

110 Ranad Bk 554.68 135 Chinchavane 699.92

111 Kondani 396.46 136 Wanjulshet 531.17

112 Ghatghar 2116.20 137 Khadki Kd 313.72

113 Samarad 1840.06 138 Khadki Bk 273.44

114 Shinganwadi 782.91 139 Purushwadi 378.74

115 Ratanwadi 1387.00 140 Siswad 621.88

116 Shendi 265.07 141 Maveshi 330.74

117 Murshet 913.10 142 Balthan 503.67

118 Panjare 1501.03 143 Ma. Ozar 317.91

119 Uddawane 1722.37 144 Baravwadi 382.77

120 Bhandardara 703.69 145 Shirpunje Kd 1115.56

121 Guhire 319.28 146 Shirpunje Bk 1153.61

122 Mutkhel 1426.18 147 Ambit 870.04

123 Koltembhe 1289.58 148 Kumshet 3027.84

124 Katalapur 698.65 149 Savarkute 718.05

125 Terungan 408.20 150 Dhamangoan 619.10

126 Sarowarwadi 380.04

Total Area of Rajur Circle: 39386.55 Hectares


34

Table No. 2.2(iv) Samsherpur Circle

Sr.

No Name of Village

Geog. Area

(Hectares)

Sr.

No Name of Village

Geog. Area

(Hectares)

151 Devgaon 547.21 171 Mhalungi 601.00

152 Ladgaon 439.00 172 Bitaka 566.34

153 Titavi 552.00 173 Kokanwadi 466.03

154 Ambevangan 693.93 174 Tirdhe 1138.00

155 Shelvihir 560.81 175 Pachpattawadi 890.00

156 Shenit Kd 556.00 176 Virgaon 1337.00

157 Shenit Bk 969.00 177 Hivargaon 761.00

158 Shivajinagar 1438.00 178 Dongargaon 839.00

159 Pabhulwandi 599.69 179 Sawargaon Paat 1479.00

160 Dongarwadi 392.69 180 Devthan 3536.00

161 Pimpercane 728.63 181 Samsherpur 1323.00

162 Padoshi 1175.66 182 Muthalne 1922.00

163 Pedhewadi 742.91 183 Kombhalane 1803.00

164 Khirvire 2331.33 184 Poperewadi 354.00

165 Sangavi 614.82 185 Tahakari 947.00

166 Pimpaldarawadi 666.15 186 Keli-

rumhanwadi

936.00

167 Jayanawadi 323.90 187 Nagwadi 1040.00

168 Dagadwadi 429.26 188 Ghodsarwadi 942.00

169 Chandgirwadi 530.00 189 Ganore 775.00

170 Ekdara 1023.00 190 Tambhol 841.00

191 Pimp. Nipani 974.00

Total Area of Samsherpur Circle: 38784.36 Hectares.

Area of Total Akole Tahasil: 1,49,990.31 Hector

Table No. 2.2 (Source: Panchayat Samiti, Akole, 2011)

Note: 1. Total 4 Circles and 191 Villages in the Tahasil.

I) Akole Circle [Table No. 2.2(i)] - 56 Villages (36624.51 hect)

II) Kotul Circle [Table No. 2.2(ii)] - 45 Villages (35194.89 hect)

III) Rajur Circle [Table No. 2.2(iii)] - 49 Villages (39386.55 hect) and

IV) Samsherpur Circle [Table No. 2.2(iiii)]- 41Villages (38784.36

hect)

2. Total Area of the village 1, 49,990.31 hectors.


35

2.2 Physical Profile:

The whole district formed part of the great trap region of the Deccan.

Throughout Ahmednagar district is distinctly stratified and as in the rest of the

Deccan, the alternative belts of basalt and atrygdaloid preserve a striking parallelism

to each other.

2.2.1 Geology:

The different landforms in a region constitute its physical setup. If we consider

the physical setup of the study area we see that there are two physical divisions or

relief features (Map No. 2.3). First the Western Hilly region e.g. Sahyadri hill ranges

with their off-shoots, like as Kalsubai, Adula, Baleshwar, Harishchandra garh hill

range and various high peaks are found in the region. Kalsubai (1646 meter) the

highest peak in Sahyadri Ranges.1

The second feature is the plateaus at a general

elevation of 600 meters e.g. two plateaus such as Akola plateau and the Jamkhed

plateau.

Present study area is covered with compound pahoehoe flows (40-50mt.),

compound pahoehoe flows and some Aa flows (Max. 260mt.), megacryst compound

pahoehoe basaltic flowM3 (50-60mt.), compound pahoehoe basaltic lava flows (Max.

160mt.), compound pahoehoe basaltic lava flows (Max.150mt.) basic sill or lava

channels and alluvium.

The area is consisting of lava flows of 12-14 mainly of compound pahochoe

flows and some Aa types of flows. Multiple layers of solidified fluid basalt and is

more than 260 meters thick and formed during 60 to 68 million years ago during the

Cretaceous period. The basaltic lava flows is estimated to be around more than 80%

of study area. The study area having several fault lines across the Mutha river basin

showing highly unstable area as compare to northern part i.e. Pravara river basin

where several intrusive dykes were available and flows north south direction. The

layer of alluvium is only found near downstream region of Pravara and Mutha river

especially eastern part of Akole Tahasil.


36

2.2.1.1 Geology Map:

Map No. 2.3


37

2.2.2 Topography (DEM):

Akole tahasil is drained by two main rivers namely Pravara and Mula

tributaries of the Godavari river basin. The Harishchandragarh mountain range plays

the role of watershed divider which stretches in west to east (Map No. 2.4) direction

in the tahasil.

Agriculture is directly and indirectly depends on the topographic condition.

The topographic factors like elevation, slope angle, slope direction etc. are controlling

size and shape of forms and cropping pattern and growing crops. Physiographically

western part of the study area is represented by highly rugged and dissected terrain of

Western Ghats including the highest peak of Maharashtra like Kalasubai (1646m

above MSL). Akole Tahasil having the various ranges minimum relief is about 300

meters while maximum relief is 1646 meters above MSL. i.e. peak of Kalasubai.

Except Kalasubai there are several other important peaks are present in Akole Tahasil

like Harishchandragad, Ratangad etc. The average relief of the Tahasil is

approximately at an altitude of 800 to 900 meters above MSL. Elevation is decreasing

towards eastern part of the region. The hills of the study area were break due to the

two main rivers basins i.e. Pravara River and Mutha River north and southern part

respectively.

2.2.3 Contour Line:

On sloppy lands raising bunds of same height can effectively conserve the soil

and water. Long slopes can be broken by excavating trenches (Continuous or

Staggered) for trapping the soil particles being carried by run-off water and run-off

water will get enough time for infiltration to recharge the soil profiles of hill slopes.

On slopes with eight percent gradient, leveled terraces are constructed to break the

lope for soil and water conservation. A mild slope is given towards the hillsides of the

terrace. It has also been observed that proper disposal of excess rainwater through

stabilized drains helps in maintaining lands of cultivable fields and reduces soil as

well as water losses(Map no. 2.5).


38

2.2.2.1 Digital Elevation Model (DEM):

Map No. 2.4


39

2.2.3.1 Contour Map:

Map No.2.5


40

2.2.4 Drainage Pattern:

Pravara, Mula and Adhala, are the main important rivers systems drained from

Akole tahasil (Map no. 2.6). All rivers flow in west to east direction and meet to the

other river. River Adhala flow from the northern side, Pravara flows from the middle

and Mula flows from the southern side of this tahasil. The detail of drainage

configuration of each basin is given below.

The basin occupies the northern part of the tahasil. River Adhala is the sub

tributary of river Pravara and river Pravara is the main tributary of river Godavari.

The drainage pattern is dendritic. Water of the river Pravara fall from a great height,

creating the Randha falls. The total length of river Adhala is 15 miles (3914 hectares

catchment area), river Pravara is 120 miles (3681 hectares catchment area) and the

river Mula is 20miles (1891 hectares catchment area).

2.2.5 Water Bodies:

Water is one of the vital important resources. Without water no life would

exist and the earth would be a huge desert.3

In the trappan region, there is exist a good

co-relation between the groundwater potential and the land forms. The hydro

geomorphic zones correspond to the land forms such as runoffs zone corresponds to

highly dissected plateau. The recharge zone corresponds to the moderately dissected

plateau and the storage zone corresponds to slightly dissected plateau. The major part

of the study area is covered by the Deccan trap. The ground water prospected of each

landform is described below (Map no. 2.7).


41

2.2.4.1 Map of Drainage Pattern:

Map No.2.6


42

2.2.5.1 Distribution of Surface Water bodies Map:

Map No. 2.7


43

Lots of surface water bodies like River, Stream, Nadi, Canal, Ponds, Tanks

and Dams are present over the study area. The important Rivers are Pravara, Mula,

Adhala and Mhalungi. The important Dams are Wilson (Bhandardara) and Nilwande

(Upper Pravara project-II) reservoirs are the major and Adhala dam is the medium

surface reservoir in the study area (Map no. 2.7). Another small and medium size

surfaces reservoirs are play an important role in the agricultural activities e.g. Waki,

Sakat, Ambit, Balthan, Titwi, Bori, Belapur Badgi, Kothale, Sangvi, Padoshi,

Shirpunje, Devthan etc. and Khadki, Sakirwadi, Siswad, Kotul, Bori, Pimpalgaon

Khand, Lingdev, Chass, Pimpaldari, Padalne, Lahit, Dhamangaon Pat etc. K.T.Wares

constructed in the study area. A large number of small tanks or reservoirs have been

delineated. Most of them are minor irrigation projects or peculation tanks.

2.2.6 Soil Types:

Soil is a natural body developed by natural forces acting on natural materials

and it is a complex body showing great variations in depth, colure, composition and

behavior. Its important fact is that it provides food, clothing and even increasing list

of other needs of human being. And hence while describing the soils; the detailed

knowledge of site and soil conditions is required as it helps to determine land

leveling, the irrigation, drainage and special reclamation requirement of specific soil

type, soil conservation measures and the alignment of canals and drains. The soil

information is also necessary to judge the optimum size of the farm, choice of the

crops, application of fertilizers, cultivation and irrigation scheduling. The present

section deals with soil types in connection with the irrigation and also fertility status

in the region.4

Soil is a natural resource with which the existence of the human beings is

closely associated. It is the mantle on the land surface that acts as a medium for plant

growth. Soil structure is recognized as one of the most important properties since it

influences aeration, permeability and water capacity. In the field, the structure is

described in terms of type (Shape and Arrangement), Class (Size) and Grade (Degree

of aggregation).3

Soils are important resources, which developed through loose fine

particles equipped with various kinds of organic and inorganic compound, under the

interaction of climate, rocks and biological process in any area.7


44

Being a part of „Deccan trap‟ the soils of the study area are generally of trap

origin. The soils are classified as:

a. Black Cotton Soils: (The soil with a characteristically black in colure ranging

from brown to deep black occurs extensively along river tracts). These soils fall

under the two sub-groups as Black soils or regur and secondly alluvial. The

advantage of these soils lies in their high water holding capacity. However,

their disadvantage lies in poor drainage and consequent water logging. With

proper water management, these soils can be efficiently managed for successful

crop production.

b. Coarse Shallow Soils: (These soils are light brown in colure and loamy to

sandy in structure containing about 9.30 % of calcium carbonate, 56 % of clay

and 12 % of silt with ph value of about 7.6 owing to the shallowness, poor

structure and texture, they are largely devoted to crops requiring less water,

particularly, jowar, bajra, pulses etc.). These soils are found along with hill

ranges formed by eastward projecting off-shoots of the Western Ghats.

Management of natural resources such as soil, water as well as development of

improved high-yielding varieties of field crops and horticultural trees suiting to agro-

climatic conditions of hills and mountains holds key to increase the crop and

horticultural production.3

Different types of Soils are found in different villages (Map 2.8) in the study

area i.e. Very Shallow Loamy Soil (41.51%), Shallow Clayey Soil (10.84%), Shallow

Calcareous Soil (1.72%), Slightly Deep Loamy Soil (4.76%), Deep Loamy Soil

(3.11%), Shallow Loamy Soil on gently slop (3.26%), Very Shallow Loamy on

Moderate Soil (12.02%), Very Shallow Calcareous Soil (10.98%), Slightly deep fine

Soil (3.26%), Deep fine Soil (6.58%) and water body (1.96%) etc. Near the Pravara

river wide tracts of deep rich lands are found. In the Adhala Vally, there is a good

deal of fertile land bordering the river banks. The western part of the study area (Hilly

area), red soils derived by residual weathering of the basalts in a tropical humid

climate, deeper on the slopes than on the levels.


45

2.2.6.1 Soil Types Map:

Map No. 2.8


46

2.2.7 Climatic Condition:

Growth and development of crop is primarily governed by environmental

conditions of soils and weather. Climatologically information can lead to better choice

in areas, such as irrigation design, irrigation needs, groundwater extraction, crop type,

cropping patterns and plants for mitigating natural disasters like droughts, cyclones,

heavy rains floods etc.3

Climate is the most effective factor in soil formation and its fertility. In the

hilly region, climate is slightly cool. Bhandardara is hill station in the study area. In

the winter season which starts from November to February, the air is dry and

invigorating. The period from March to the first week of June is the hot season. But in

some parts of hill ranges in the study area. The temperature is slightly cool in this

season. It is followed by the south-west monsoon season which lasts till the end of

September, October and November constitute the post-monsoon or the retreating

south-west monsoon season. The hilly region receives more rainfall e.g. Ghatghar,

Ratanwadi etc.

2.2.7.1 Agro-Climatic Zones:

The study area divided into two agro-climatic zones i.e. Ghat (hilly) zone and

Plain or plateau (transition) zone.

a. Ghat (Hilly) Zone:

This Zone is situated in western part of the tahasil. Geographically this zone is

covered only 4% area of Ahmednagar district. This zone spread along with crest of

Sahyadri ranges is having mostly tribal population with small holdings and are

economically backward. In this zone, maximum temperature ranges from 31 to 39 o

c

and minimum from 10 to 18 o

c. Very high rainfall which ranges from 1500 to 3000

mm and mostly covered by deciduous or semi deciduous forests, about fifty percent of

the geographical area is under forest, the population in this region depends on natural

resources and collection of forest products.

b. Plain or plateau (Transition) Zone:

This zone is confined only to eastern part of the tahasil. River Pravara which

flows from this zone is a major source of irrigation through lift irrigation schemes

which is responsible for changing the scenario of the zone. In this zone, annual

rainfall is in between 700-1250 mm.


47

2.2.7.2 Agro-Ecological Situations:

The study area is divided into two major agro-ecological situation based on

depth of soil and availability of canal irrigation. This type of categorization has been

done essentially to prepare situation specific strategic research and extension plans.

There are 191 villages in the study area.

a. Very High Rainfall and Light Lateritic Soils (Ghats „Hilly‟ Zone):

This condition with high rainfall is in the western part of the study area having

only 3% of cultivated area (Representative village is Panjare). Rice is the major staple

food crop in this condition. There is rice based cropping pattern.

b. Medium Rainfall, Light Soils, Well and Lifts Irrigation:

This condition is observed in the eastern part of the study area, having only

2% of cultivated area in Mula and Pravara basins (Representative village is Washere).

Sugarcane and Vegetables are major crops followed by dairy as an important

enterprise.

2.2.7.3 Temperature:

The temperature varies substantially throughout the year. The average

minimum temperature is 10 to 18oc

whereas maximum temperature ranges from 31 to

39oc respectively. Seasonal variation in temperature is quite large. From March

onwards are a period of continuous increase in day temperature and the nights

remaining comparatively cool. May is the hottest month of the year with the mean

daily maximum temperature at 38.9oc. On individual day‟s temperature occasionally

rise to more than 39oc. With the onset of the south- west monsoon, there is an

appreciable drop in temperature and the weather becomes pleasant. With the

withdrawal of the monsoon days, temperature increase but temperature in night

progressively decreases. From the middle of November both day and night

temperatures decreases rapidly. December is the coldest month of the year with the

mean daily minimum temperature at 11.7 oc.


48

2.2.7.4 Rainfall:

The primary source of water for agriculture production for most of the world

is rainfall. Before rain strikes the earth‟s surface, there is some evaporation in the

atmosphere. This amount is never measured, but it increases air humidity, lowers the

temperature and so reduces evaporations from field crops. Vapor may also be blown

away by winds to the surrounding area. Rain may be intercepted by vegetation.6

In the study area consists of two zones namely the Transition Zone (receiving

700-1250 mm rainfall) and Hilly Zone (receiving 1250-3250 mm rainfall). The

monsoon season starts in the month of the June and continues till late September. In

this tahasil rainfall measurement centre is located at Akole, Ratanwadi, Ghatghar,

Washere and Panjare. 1990-91 to 2010-11 (20 years) averagely rainfall category are

as follows.

2.2.7.4.1 Average Rainfall 1991to 2011:

Sr. no 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Year 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000

Rainfall 544 404.5 636.3 509.8 374 620 587 814.5 403 439

Sr. no 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

Year 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

Rainfall 473 445 489 1074 1080 1090 913 1006 549 829 500

Table no.2.3 (Source: Panchayat Samiti, Akole)

(Note: Rainfall is given in millimeters)

Fig. No. 2.1 Average Rainfall (mm)

54

4

40

4.5

63

6.3

50

9.8

37

4

62

0

58

7

81

4.5

40

3 43

9 47

3

44

5 48

9

10

74

10

80

10

90

91

3

10

06

54

9

82

9

50

0

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

Ra

infa

ll in

mil

imet

er

Year

Rainfall


49

In the study area the rainfall is mainly due to South West monsoon winds. The

tahasil received an average rainfall is 508.9 mm. The period under investigation

availability of rainfall condition is flexible in the study area. It is observed from this

table no. 2.3 and fig no. 2.1 is below rainfall 500 mm in the year 1992, 95 and 1999 to

2004. In 1991, 93, 94, 96 to 98, 2008, 10 and 2011 there were 500 to 1000 mm of

rainfall. In the year of 2005 to 08 and 2009 is high rainfall i.e. above 1000 mm.

2.2.7.5 Wind:

Winds are also an important factor or addition to temperature and moisture.

Condition in a region winds direction and their intensity also have an influence on the

cropping pattern.13

For agricultural productivity of this region, winds have both the

direct and indirect effects on crops and the movements of winds increases

evaporation. The wind direction is from North West to south west. In winter it flows

from South West to North West. The sky is usually clear throughout the year and

visibility is good.1

Winds are generally light to moderate in force with some

strengthening during the monsoon season.

2.3 Natural Vegetation:

Land, water and vegetation are precious natural resources and the source of

human sustenance and security. The forest area in the district is distributed among 884

villages accounting for 56.89 percent (160074.69 hectors and social forestry 3191.20

hectors in 1991) of the villages in the district. The forest produce is divided into two

main classes, i. Major and ii. Minor. Major forest produces are timber and firewood

whereas minor forest produces are bamboo, grass, grazing, tendu, leaves and gum.


50

2.3.1 Vegetation Map:

Map No.2. 9


51

There is 41,698 hector forest areas located in the study area as per the position

in 2011. The predominant species found in the area are Babool (alacia arabica),

Prosopis, Capparis and Euphorbia. Some of the other species such as Jujebee,

Maharuk (ailanthus excels) etc. Other trees are various scrubs and grass, bamboo etc.

Fruit trees are also available like Mango (mangifera indica), Tamarind (tamarindus

indica), Amala, Coconut, Jamun, Jatropha, Guava, Lemon, Chikoo, Pomegranate,

Custard-apple and Citrus fruits etc.

2.4 Wild Life (Livestock):

Livestock husbandry is an allied activity in the study area. Rearing of

livestock is in traditional form, attached with cultivation of crops.7 The important

species or various types of animals available in this study area like Crane, Cookoo,

Owl, Squirrel, Rook, Sparrow, Snakes, Cub, Deer, Dove, Falcon, Iguana (Ghorpad),

Panther, Stag and number of livestock including Cattle, Buffaloes, Sheep, Goats,

Horses and Ponies, Pigs etc.

Among various livestock, cross breed cows have more importance. Due to the

network of milk co-operative societies at village level and payment to the dairymen at

regular intervals of 15 days, most of the farmers have adopted dairy as an important

supplementary enterprise in irrigated farming system. Farmers are interested in cross

breed cows because of more milk production and less inter calving period. Sheep‟s

are reared in specific areas of the tahasil. These sheep flocks are migrating depending

upon availability of free grazing land in nearby areas. The sheep‟s are reared for meat

and milk purpose. Goat is also reared for dual purpose i.e. milk production and meat.

Goat meat has more market price as compare to broiler. Back yard poultry is being

looked after only by family women. The production from back yard poultry supports

family income.

Natural temple Randha fall built in memory of wild reptile (Iguana) which is

worshiped by local people. In ancient time, the animal iguana was used for climbing

mountain by tying a rope on its back. The local people don‟t hunt this animal as it

provides more help. Other wild animals are leopard, wild cat, wolf, fox, rabbit, hyena,

monkey, chip munk, mongoose etc. Bird like sunbirds, dheewar (Kingfisher), Dayal

(Magpie), Pingla, wood picker, heron, stroks, spoonbill, waterhen, blackwing, yellow


52

leapwing, kite, eagle, bulbul etc and various species of vegetation, shrubs, herbs etc

also grows in the study area.

Animal render extremely useful service in our transport system as well as in

our agricultural activities. Livestock products have a wide range. Almost every animal

group producing a series of products useful for various purposes, chief among these

products are milk and milk products, meat, hides, skins and wool.1

2.5 Resume:

The region is a part of basaltic plateau. The physical landscape of the region is

marked by the mountain and hill ranges, river plains and undulating topography.

Sahyadri ranges are well defined by the watershed and available water in various

dams. As such eastern part is suitable for development of well irrigation (available for

more than 28000 wells), the canal irrigation is feasible in the flood plains of the major

river basins (Pravara and Mula), whereas only lift irrigation can develop in the

central, western and southern part of the Tahasil. Climatically the Tahasil is hot and

dry throughout the year except the south west monsoon season during which relative

humidity is high. The rainfall distribution (average rainfall is 508.9mm) both seasonal

and regional is uneven and uncertain. The dry pattern over six months covers the

major parts of the region. These facts indicate that that there is need of irrigation in

both the seasons. The rivers Pravara, Mula and Adhala are important sources of

surface water which have facilities canal and Lift irrigation. The ground water is also

an important source of irrigation but seasonal fluctuation in water table is the major

constraint in its development. Surface water and vegetation are precious natural

resources and the source of human sustenance and security. In the study area forests

are divided into two main classes (major and minor 27.7% obtained area) and various

types of animals, species available in the study area.

The total geographical area of the Tahasil is changed due to some political

embracement. In 1990-91, the area occupied by the Tahasil was 145712.89 hectares in

out of which 28.29% was under forests, 6.13% was under agriculture. Where as in

2000-01, the total area of the Tahasil was 149942.39 hectares out of which 43.33%

are was under forest and 8.12% land was under agriculture. In 2013, the total

geographical area of the Tahasil was 149942.39 hectares. Out of it 36.94% land was

under forests and 22.61% was under agriculture.


53

2.6 References:

1. Ahmednagar District Censes Hand book (1991): „Series 14, Part xii A and B‟,

Govt. Central Press, Mumbai (MS), (P.p 18-60).

2. Anil Thote (2009): „Ghatghar Hydro-electricity Project‟, Treasurer, Ghatghar,

Akole.

3. B. K Tupe (2009): „The Changing Cropping Pattern - A Case Study of Rahata

Taluka in Ahmednagar district‟, unpublished M.Phil Dissertation, Submitted

to Tilak Maha. Vidyapeeth, Pune, M. S, India, (P.p 17-32).

4. C. T. Pawar (1989): „Impact of Irrigation (A Regional Perspective)‟, Himalaya

Publishing House, Bombay, (P.p 15-16).

5. Dr. Mushir Ali (2009): „Geography of Agriculture Marketing at Grass Roots

Level‟, Pacific Publication (1st Edtion), Delhi, (P.p 25, 50).

6. Handbook of Agriculture (2011): Indian Council of Agricultural Research

(ICAR 6th

Edition Revised), Directorate of Knowledge Management in

Agriculture, New Delhi, (P.p 111-12, 123).

7. Pooja Kashyap (2010): „Irrigated Agriculture‟, Oxford Book Company, New

Delhi, (P.p 44-58).

8. Report Official Information (2011): „Bhandardara Dam‟, Shendi, Akole.

9. Report Panchayat Samiti (2012): „General Description of Akole Tahasil‟,

Ahmednagar District.

10. S. M Jadhav (2009): „Report Forest Officer‟, Blackbuck Sanctuary, Rehakuri,

Akole.

11. Sanjay Mandlik (1976): „Agasti Paryatan Magazine‟, Agasti Amrit

Publication, Akole.

12. Socio-Economic Abstract of Ahmednagar District (2011).

13. Vivek Sharma (1999): „Tourism in India‟, Jaipur Publication, New Delhi.

Date post:	17-Jul-2019
Category:	Documents
Upload:	dinhkhanh
View:	231 times
Download:	0 times

Chapter No II - Shodhganga : a reservoir of Indian...

Documents