Chapter-II

- 32 -

Chapter-II

GEOGRAPHICAL SETUP

2.1 Introduction

2.2 Location of Study Area

2.3 Administrative Divisions

2.4 Physiography

2.5 Climatic Condition

2.6 Geology

2.7 Soil

2.8 Natural Vegetation

2.9 Drainage System

2.10 Digital Elevation Model

2.11 Road Network

2.12 Demographic Dimensions

2.13 Socio-Economic Setup

2.14 Conclusion

2.15 Suggestions

References

Web-References

Chapter-II

- 33 -

CHAPTER – II

GEOGRAPHICAL SET-UP

2.1 Introduction

Relief, drainage, slope, soil, climate, vegetation all are important

physical features. Human resources such as population growth, male-

female ratio, population distribution, etc. are equally important

component of geographical studies. In general, both physical and socio-

economic aspects are directly or indirectly impacting on the growth of a

region. Ultimately, physical and human resources are controlling Land

use and Land cover of the region.

Miraj tahsil is the most urbanized tahsil of Sangli district. Sangli-

Miraj-Kupwad Municipal Corporation is the biggest urban area of Sangli

district, is located in Miraj tahsil. The proportion of urban population in

the tahsil is increasing very fast, as a result the pressure on natural

resources is increasing day by day. The agriculture in the western part of

the tahsil is quite developed than eastern part. The irrigated and well

fertile land of western part is converting into saline land whereas dry

land of eastern part is being brought under cultivation through canal

irrigation. The changing land use and land cover is compelling to

comprehend the resources in Miraj tahsil. On the whole, Miraj tahsil is

experiencing several changes, which require systematic study in this

concern the understanding of geographical set-up of tahsil is very much

essential.

The assessment of physical and socio-economic condition helps to

understand the present geographical setting and its potentialities for

futuristic development. Therefore, with this view an attempt is made in

this chapter to know the geographical setting of Miraj tahsil.

2.2 Location

Miraj Tahsil is situated in the river basins of Krishna River. It is

bounded by Jath tahsil to the east, Kavathe-Mahnkal, Tasgaon to the

Chapter-II

- 34 -

north-east and north, Palus and Walwa tahsils to the north-west and

west. Miraj tahsil is sharing its boundary with Kolhapur district (Shirol

and Hatkanangle tahsil) and Belgaon district (Athani tahsil) of Karnataka

state.

2.3 Administrative Divisions

Upto 1948 Miraj (senior) and Miraj (Junior) were functioning as

erstwhile Princely States. The present Sangli district was named as

South Satara in 1949, which included four talukas viz. Tasgaon,

Khanapur, Walwa and Shirala (transferred from old Satara district) and

two new talukas namely Miraj and Jath formed out of the former Princely

States. In 1960, the name of South Satara district was changed to Sangli

district with its headquarters at Sangli in Miraj taluka. On 1st August

1964, Miraj taluka was reconstituted. The administration of Miraj tahsil

is functioning through tahsildar office located at Miraj and urban

governance by Municipal Corporation office located at Sangli.

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31

30

29

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27

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Arag

Malgaon

Miraj

Kavalapur

Sangli

Budhgaon

Kasbe Digraj

1 Arag 2 Lingnur

3 Bedag 4 Khatav 5 Shindewadi

6 Laxmiwadi 7 Kavaji Khotwadi 8 Nandra

9 Bisur10 Karnal

11 Bhudhgaon (U)12 Madhavnagar (U)

13 Padmale14 Kupwad (U)15 Bamnoli

16 Wanleswadi (U)17 Tung18 Kasabe Digraj

19 Mouje Digraj20 Kavathe Piran

21 Sheri Kavathe22 Dudhgaon

23 Samdoli24 Savalwadi25 Malwadi

26 Karoli27 Soni28 Bhose

29 Kavalapur30 Kakadwadi

31 Patgaon32 Sambarwadi

33 Siddhewadi34 Rasulwadi35 Kharkatwadi

36 Kalambi37 Manmodi38 Kanadwadi

39 Tanang40 Savali

41 Khanderajuri42 Malgaon

43 Gundewadi44 Chabukswarwadi45 Dongarwadi

46 Salgare47 Belanki48 Kadamwadi

49 Payappachiwadi50 Shipur

51 Erandoli52 Malewadi

53 Janaraowadi54 Vyankuchiwadi55 Santoshwadi

56 Takali57 Bolwad58 Miraj (U)

59 Bamani60 Nilaji

61 Vaddi62 Vijay Nagar

63 Mhaisal64 Dhavali65 Narwad

66 Sangli (U)67 Haripur68 Inam Dhamani

69 Ankali

0 10 205km

Scale

µMiraj Tehsil

Administrative Divisions

Legend

&3 Villages

Circles

Arag

Budhgaon

Kasbe Digraj

Kavalapur

Malgaon

Miraj

Sangli

Circles

Fig.2.1 Administrative Divisions of Miraj Tahsil

Miraj Tahsil

Administrative Divisions

Chapter-II

- 35 -

As per 2001 census, Miraj tahsil encompasses one Municipal

Corporation, two census towns and 64 villages. For the administration

purposes these villages are grouped into seven revenue circles (Fig2.1).

Malgaon is the biggest revenue circle containing 17 villages and Sangli is

the smallest circle taking care of 3 villages along with Sangli city.

The urban governance is operating through Municipal Corporation.

Sangli-Miraj-Kupwad (SMK) Municipal Corporation is the local self-

government body serving 4.36 lakh people. The urban area contains part

of Sangli, Miraj, Kupwad, Wanlesswadi and Sangliwadi. SMK Municipal

Corporation comprises four Prabhag (Prabhag is an urban unit, which is

formed by clubbing many wards) of 69 wards (Fig2.2). Among all,

Bhudhagaon

Madhavnagar

Prabhag-3

Prabhag-4

Prabhag-1

Prabhag-2 Wanleswadi

8

5

1

4

3

9

7

18

26

16

14

6

12

38

69

2

10

22 25

53

11

36

24

39

37

13

61

23

63

27

40

43

21

51

28

4115

52

33

66

42

19

29

32

17 4948

50

20

46

54

62

31

6445

47

44

30

58

3435

55

5956

57

6568

60

74°40'0"E

74°40'0"E

74°37'30"E

74°37'30"E

74°35'0"E

74°35'0"E

74°32'30"E

74°32'30"E

16°55'0"N 16°55'0"N

16°52'30"N 16°52'30"N

16°50'0"N 16°50'0"N

16°47'30"N 16°47'30"N

Miraj TehsilUrban Centres

0 4 82km

µ

Scale

Legend

Budhgaon

Madhavnagar

River

Prabhag

SMK Wards

Fig.2.2 Administrative Set-up of Urban Centres

Source: Based on Ward Map of Sangli-Miraj-Kupwad Municipal Corporation

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5

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4

3

9

7

18

26

16

14

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12

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69

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2225

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63

27

40

43

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51

28

41

15

52

33

66

42

1917

29

49

32

4850

20

46

54

62

31

64

45

47

44

30

58

3435

55

59

57

65

68

60

67

56

74°40'0"E

74°40'0"E

74°37'30"E

74°37'30"E

74°35'0"E

74°35'0"E

74°32'30"E

74°32'30"E

16°52'30"N 16°52'30"N

16°50'0"N 16°50'0"N

16°47'30"N 16°47'30"N

Sangli-Miraj-Kupwad Municipal Corporation

Municipal Wards

0 4 82km

.

Scale

Legend

River

SMK Wards

Bhudhagaon

Madhavnagar

Prabhag-3

Prabhag-4

Prabhag-1

Prabhag-2 Wanleswadi

8

5

1

4

3

9

7

18

26

16

14

6

12

38

69

2

10

22 25

53

11

36

24

39

37

13

61

23

63

27

40

43

21

51

28

4115

52

33

66

42

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29

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17 4948

50

20

46

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62

31

6445

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30

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3435

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5956

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6568

60

74°40'0"E

74°40'0"E

74°37'30"E

74°37'30"E

74°35'0"E

74°35'0"E

74°32'30"E

74°32'30"E

16°55'0"N 16°55'0"N

16°52'30"N 16°52'30"N

16°50'0"N 16°50'0"N

16°47'30"N 16°47'30"N

Miraj TehsilUrban Centres

0 4 82km

µ

Scale

Legend

Budhgaon

Madhavnagar

River

Prabhag

SMK Wards

Miraj Tahsil

Urban Centres

Chapter-II

- 36 -

Prabhag-3 is the largest in size. There are two census towns located in

Miraj tahsil i.e. Madhavnagar (formed in 1971) having one ward and

Budhgaon (in 2001) contains six wards.

2.4 Physiography

Physiography plays an important role in the land use pattern.

Barring Konkan entire Maharashtra is a plateau and Miraj tahsil as a

whole is a part of the Deccan plateau. On the basis of altitude Miraj

tahsil is categorized into six classes (Fig 2.3).

2.4.1 River Plain Vicinity

This is the first category adjacent to river Krishna and Warana,

within 500 to 550m altitude. This area is occupied about 153 sq km land

on both sides of the Krishna River and north of the Warana River. The

soil of this part is well fertile and irrigation systems developed on the

river boosted the agricultural production in this area.

2.4.2 Plain Land

The area located adjacent to river plain vicinity is quite same as first

category, but having some extra height. This part is of 550 to 600m

Krishna River

Warana River500-550

550-600

600-650

650-700

700-815

820

Legend

River

Table Land

Hill

Foot Hills

High Land

Plain Land

River Plain Vicinity

Miraj TahsilPhysiography

5 0 5 10 152.5

km

Scale

Fig.2.3

Source: Based on contours of Survey of India toposheet

Chapter-II

- 37 -

elevation and expanded in about 475 sq km area. This region is also good

potentiality in agricultural production.

2.4.3 High Land

The area of 600 to 650m height is named as high land and covers

about 225 sq km land. The area of eastern part of Miraj tahsil comes

under this category. This area is considered as starting edge of drought

prone region of Sangli district. Starting from this area towards east and

north-east direction of Sangli districts is known as drought prone area

(Gaikwad, 2003).

2.4.4 Foot Hills

The north-eastern part of Miraj tahsil having 650 to 700m elevation

is expressed as foot hills area. This is about 50 sq km area having

various up-and-downs in the relief. The water scarcity is the main

problem for the agriculture in this area.

2.4.5 Hill

About 22 sq km hilly portion of Miraj tahsil of 700 to 815m altitude

is categorized into Hill category. This part is containing steep slope and

possesses scanty natural vegetation. The only available and officially

recorded natural vegetation patches of Miraj tahsil are located here.

2.4.6 Table Land

The tableland expanded in 1.2 sq km area on 820m height is the

last physiographic division of Miraj tahsil. Giriling temple (Giri means

mountain and ling is name of lord Shiva) is situated in this area. This

area is having spiritual and historical background. Also the agriculture is

practiced in this area.

2.5 Climatic Condition

The climate of the study area is characterized by general dryness

throughout the year except during the south-west monsoon season.

From December to about the middle of February is a cold season and in

hot season, May is the hottest month. The south monsoon season is

Chapter-II

- 38 -

June to September and post monsoon season is October to November

(District Census Handbook, 1991). In general, the Miraj tahsil is having

pleasant climate. In the south-west monsoon months the air is highly

humid. In the post-monsoon, summer and cold seasons the air is dry

particularly in the afternoons (Sangli District Gazetteer, 2006).

Table 2.1 Distribution of Rainfall in Miraj Tahsil ( in mm )

Sr. No. Year June July August September October Total Percentage

1 1971 123.10 48.10 91.40 111.10 116.80 490.50 99.70

2 1981 167.00 79.00 46.00 228.00 12.00 532.00 128.46

3 1991 156.00 158.00 57.00 93.00 113.00 577.00 198.58

4 1995 23.46 76.50 20.60 142.60 221.20 484.36 98.45

5 1996 45.50 124.00 198.10 23.30 172.50 563.40 114.51

6 1997 178.80 81.30 105.30 56.80 136.40 558.60 113.54

7 1998 71.70 125.50 57.40 68.40 216.10 539.10 109.57

8 1999 49.00 46.20 28.80 90.70 165.50 380.20 77.28

9 2000 41.50 65.50 119.60 278.40 61.50 566.50 115.14

10 2001 70.00 57.60 45.90 187.70 110.20 471.40 95.81

11 2002 124.10 23.90 167.50 30.20 130.20 475.90 96.73

12 2003 15.00 32.00 15.60 44.80 145.60 253.00 51.42

13 2004 179.20 51.00 93.40 194.30 48.50 566.40 115.12

14 2005 173.30 162.50 200.90 136.60 61.80 735.10 149.41

15 2006 161.70 165.20 165.70 145.30 21.00 658.90 133.92

16 2007 70.00 110.00 110.00 105.00 96.00 491.00 99.80

17 2008 54.10 32.70 98.60 98.80 70.10 354.30 72.01

18 2009 30.80 181.20 58.00 237.00 112.00 619.00 125.81

Source: Socio-Economic Review and District Statistical Abstract of Sangli district and Agricultural Department, Panchyat Samiti Miraj.

Climatic Condition

0

50

100

150

200

250

Jan Feb M arch April M ay June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

Months

Ra

infa

ll (in

mm

)

0

10

20

30

40

50T

em

pe

ratu

re (

in °

C)

Rainfall-71 Rainfall-81 Rainfall-91 Rainfall-2001 Rainfall-06

Temp.Max-71 Temp.Min-71 Temp.Max-2001 Temp.Min-2001

Fig.2.4

Miraj Tahsil

Climatic Conditions, 1971-2001

Chapter-II

- 39 -

The average annual rainfall in the region is 692.4 mm (27.26"). The

statistical figures of rainfall show the variation such as, in 1971 total

annual rainfall was 490mm and in 1991 it was 577mm. The rainfall

statistics produced by Agriculture Department depicts that, during the

last 15 years from1995 to 2009, for 8 years there was excess rainfall

(above average) and for 7 years it was below average (Table 2.1). In 2006,

Miraj Tahsil had recorded total 702.7mm rainfall in 56 days and average

rainfall of the year was 541.7mm (Socio-Economic Abstract of Sangli

District, 2006-07).

Table 2.2 Temperature recorded in Miraj Tahsil ( in °C )

Year ► 1971 1981 1991 2000

Month ▼ Maximum in °C Minimum in °C Max Min Max Min Max Min

January 32.1 9.8 - - 33.4 15.6 32.2 15.4

February 34.7 12.5 - - 34.4 14.9 31.4 15.7

March 38.9 11.1 - - 37.5 18.4 36.7 18.7

April 39.7 19.3 38.7 20.9 37.5 22.0 39.2 22.5

May 39.7 19.6 38.8 22.7 37.2 22.6 34.8 22.9

June 31.5 20.2 31.5 22.6 31.3 22.6 30.7 22.8

July 31.9 19.6 - - 27.5 21.8 30.2 22.3

August 31.5 19.6 27.4 21.2 27.5 21.3 28.8 21.5

September 34.6 19.6 30.0 21.5 31.2 21.0 31.1 21.2

October 32.5 18.2 32.3 19.9 33.6 19.8 31.7 20.7

November 32.0 17.6 31.4 15.3 30.9 17.8 32.0 17.7

December 31.3 10.2 30.6 14.7 31.8 13.9 31.2 14.1

Source: Socio-Economic Review and District Statistical Abstract of Sangli district.

The mean daily maximum temperature is 37.5°C (99.5°F) and the

mean daily minimum 22.7°C (72.9°F), recorded at meteorological

observatory in Miraj. The temperature of the Miraj tahsil varies from

23°C to 40°C. In 1971 the maximum recorded temperature was 39.7°C in

April and minimum temperature was 9.8°C in January. In 2000, the

maximum temperature was 39.2°C in April and minimum 14.1°C in

December. Winds are light to moderate except in the south-west

monsoon season.

Chapter-II

- 40 -

2.6 Geology

The only geological formation of the study area is the Deccan traps

(Cretaceous-Eocene). This trap belongs to the type called 'plateau basalt'

and it is more or less uniform in composition corresponding to dolerite or

basalt (District Census Handbook, 1991). The minerals are not found in

the study area. The black (Basalt) rock is used in building material, road

metal and railway ballasts. Hence, fair amount of stone quarries’ can be

seen on the eastern part of Miraj tahsil, especially along the Pandharpur

road.

The Deccan traps are unreliable sources of ground-water because

of the irregular distribution of inter-trappean beds. The main aquifers are

either the inter-trepan beds or the decomposed zones in the traps

therefore the depth of the water-table is varying (Sangli District

Gazetteer, (1969), 2006). The level of water-table in western part of tahsil

is quite high because of developed irrigation facility on the River Krishna

and the Warana. Whereas the eastern part of tahsil is very low, the level

of water-table is decreasing very fast as the number of tube wells are

increasing. Till 2008, there were total 1262 tube wells successfully

functioning in the Miraj tahsil. The quality of ground-water was good,

but now days in urban areas, the picture is changing because of high

pollution.

2.7 Soil

Relief influences soil formation, primarily through its effect upon

drainage, runoff and erosion and secondarily through variations in

exposure to the sun, wind and air drainage (Jagtap, 1985). The soils in

the study area are essentially derived from the underlying basalt and

under different climatic conditions show variations in the texture and

structure. It varies from deep black soil in the river valleys to shallow

murum (rock-strewn) in eastern part particularly with black, grey, light

brown in the colour (District Census Handbook, 1991).

Chapter-II

- 41 -

2.7.1 Very Deep Black Soil

The adjacent parts of the river course are occupied by the very

deep black soil, which is derived from the Deccan traps. This soil is

characterized by clayey texture and granular to crumb structure. It is

porous and swells by the addition of water and dries up with cracks on

losing moisture. This soil is very fertile in nature and having capacity to

produce high yield.

2.7.2 Deep Black Soil

The deep black soil found in the Krishna and Warana River valley.

It is fertile and does not require manure for long periods. The major part

of the Miraj tahsil is covered by rich soil. This soil is blackish brown in

colour and has clayey texture and granular to blocky structure. Most of

the area of Sangli and Kasabe Digraj Circle, and some north-eastern part

of Budhgaon Circle, eastern part of Miraj and Kavalapur Circle are

occupied by deep black soil.

2.7.3 Medium Deep soil

The medium deep soil encompasses same characteristics like deep

black soil. Its tone is light reddish brown to grey and the layer is quite

74°50'0"E

74°50'0"E

74°40'0"E

74°40'0"E

74°30'0"E

74°30'0"E

17°0'0"N 17°0'0"N

16°50'0"N 16°50'0"N

Miraj TahsilDistribution of SoilË

5 0 5 10 152.5

km

Scale

LegendSoil

Deep Black

Very Deep Black

Medium Deep

Shallow

River

Tehsil Boundary

Saline

Very Shallow

Fig.2.5

Source: District Soil Survey Department and Soil Map of Regional Planning Report

Chapter-II

- 42 -

shallow as compare with deep soil. The villages namely Kupwad, Vaddi,

Dhavali, Mhaisal, Takali, Malgaon, Bhose, Soni, Karoli, Arag, Shindewadi

etc. are having patches of this soil.

2.7.4 Shallow Soil

A shallow soil is light brown to reddish brown in colour and loamy

sands to sandy clay in texture. The shallow soil is normally known as

structure-less soil. This soil is found in various patches in the part of

Kupwad, Mhaisal, Narwad, Vijaynagar, Bedag, Erandoli and Lingnur.

Some small patches of the shallow soil are found in Salagar,

Santoshwadi, Shipur, Khanderajuri, etc.

2.7.5 Very Shallow Soil

Very shallow soil is found in the mid and eastern part of Miraj

tahsil. Mostly it is found in open-barren land and considered as low

productive. This area can be brought under cultivation using advance

technology and water from Mahisal canal.

The over irrigation and wrong cropping practices have created the

problem of salinization. Villages such as Samdoli, Kavathe Piran,

Dudhgaon, Kasabe & Mouje Digraj, etc. are containing pieces of saline

soil. Due to this problem a considerable amount of well fertile land

becomes saline waste.

2.8 Natural Vegetation

Miraj tahsil occupy very small portion of natural vegetation in the

form of bushy and stunted tree growth on the hills in the north-eastern

part. This part is mostly barren having scattered stunted and bushy tree

species such as Acacia aburnea (Murmati), Acacia arabica (Babul),

Ziziphus jujuba (Bor). However, this area contains few matured scattered

trees of Azadirachta indica (Neem), Eugenia jambulana (Jambhul),

Tamarindus indica (Chinch), Pongamia glabra (Karanj) (Sangli District

Gazetteer, 1969).

Chapter-II

- 43 -

Fig.2.6 Source: Based on Survey of India Toposheet (47/L9/NE and 47/L13/NW)

The natural vegetation of Miraj tahsil is grouped into 3 general

categories viz. Fairly dense scrub, Open Mixed Jungle and Open Scrub

(Fig 2.6). The name identification of natural vegetation is recognized by

the village where forest is located e.g. Salgare Reserved Forest,

Dongarwadi Projected Forest, Khanderajuri Projected Forest, Bhose

Social Forestry and Bhose Reserved Forest. The name of forest indicates

that available vegetation comes under reserved forest and some of them

are projected forest. Some of the areas in eastern parts of Miraj tahsil are

Miraj Tahsil

Natural Vegetation

Chapter-II

- 44 -

rocky and murmad (rock-strewn-rough) therefore, only inferior type of

grass is grown in this area. In some localities scattered grown trees are

found especially on the bank of streams, along the roads and uplands. In

Miraj tahsil total 1079 hectare land is covered by Natural Vegetation,

which becomes only 1.16% to total geographic area. Only 1% area is

under forest therefore, administrators must look into the matter and take

some serious measures to increase the forest land.

2.9 Drainage System

Generally the drainage basin is known as an area that is drained

by a river and its tributaries. Krishna is the main river of Miraj tahsil and

Warana is the largest tributary of the Krishna in the Sangli district. The

Krishna is one of the largest sacred rivers of southern India.

Approximately 105km of the river course falls inside the Sangli district

out of that 65km is in Miraj tahsil. The Krishna River is flowing from

north-west to south-east direction and the Warana River is from east to

west. The drainage system of Miraj tahsil is mainly controlled by geology

and physiography of the region.

Krishna River

Warana River

Miraj TahsilDrainage System

Legend

Water Tanks

Stream Orders

Stream Order-4

Stream Order-1

Stream Order-2

Stream Order-3

Stream Order-5

Stream Order-65 0 5 10 152.5

km

Scale

·

Fig.2.7

Source: Based on Survey of India Toposheet ( Toposheet No: 47L/5NE, 47L/9NE, NW, SE, SW, 47L/10NE, 47L/13NE, NW, SE, SW, 47L/14NW )

Chapter-II

- 45 -

The drainage network is the network of the main river and its

tributaries. The drainage system of Miraj tahsil contains five micro

watersheds and streams up to order six (Fig.2.7). The entire tahsil is

considered as one basin and calculations are made to understand the

morphometric characteristics. The morphometery is the quantitative

description of the basin and its network.

Stream ordering describes the

position of a stream in the drainage

network and it is calculated by applying the

Horton’s law of drainage network

development. There are total 1516 streams

in which order one streams are 1260 and

its total length is 774km. The last stream is

of order six and its total length is 4km. The summery of morphometric

analysis of the study region is represented in Table 2.3a and 2.3b. The

above Table is the output of various calculations based on the standard

Table 2.3a Morphometric Analysis of Study area

Sr No Morphometric Parameter Unit Value

1 Order - 6

2 Bifurcation Ratio - 4.20

3 Basin Area km2 926.10

4 Absolute (Highest) Relief Meter 835

5 Lowest Relief Meter 535

6 Relative Relief (H - L) Meter 300

7 Length of the Basin Km 59.86

8 Width of the Basin Km 31.42

9 Elongation Ratio - 0.57

10 Stream Frequency Stream / km2 1.80

11 Drainage Density Km / km2 1.64

Source: Calculations are made based on the characteristics

Topo No : 47L/5NE, 47L/9NE, NW, SE, SW, 47L/10NE, 47L/13NE, NW, SE, SW, 47L/14NW

Table 2.3 b Stream Ordering

Stream Order

No of Streams

Total Length

1 1260 774

2 311 342

3 70 201

4 21 124

5 5 71

6 1 4

Length in Km

Chapter-II

- 46 -

methods hence, here only output is depicted. From the morphometric

calculation it depicts that it is sixth order basin with a bifurcation ratio

4.20, so it can be interpreted as one stream bifurcates into four small or

tributary streams. This figure falls between 3 and 5 hence, it is expected

that the effect of geology on the area is very low. The relative relief of the

area is moderately low of 300m but its highest relief is 835m and lowest

of 535m. The elongation ratio of the study area is 0.57, which is not near

to one, so it is not in a circle shape.

2.10 Digital Elevation Model

Digital Elevation Model (DEM) is useful for better visualization of

the relief over space or it is a 3-dimensional model of topography. The

contour lines of 5m interval from 1:25000 scale toposheet were digitized

and using interpolation procedure DEM of the study area is prepared.

Fig.2.8 Digital Elevation Model (DEM) of Miraj Tahsil

Miraj Tahsil

Digital Elevation Model

Chapter-II

- 47 -

Table 2.4 Statistics of Roads in Miraj Tahsil, 2006.

Road Category Total Length (in

km) Metal Stony Murum

Major State Highway 29.1 29.1

State Highway 101.12 85.12 16

Major District Road 207.56 166.8 27.4 13.36

Other District Road 329.68 71.41 90.57 167.7

Tahsil Roads (Rural) 504.24 87.06 109.5 307.68

Total Length in km 1171.7 439.49 227.47 504.74

Source: Public Welfare Department, Zilla Parishad Sangli, 2006.

Socio-Economic Set-up

There are various indicators to check the socio-economic condition

of an area. In this study some of the important indicators are studied.

2.11 Road Network

The development of any country or region depends on the road

network of that area. Similarly, the road network of Miraj tahsil has

supported to the overall development.

Miraj tahsil is having quite good road network if compared with

other tahsils of Sangli district (Fig 2.9). Miraj tahsil comprises about 13

per cent of land under urban use therefore the total length of road is also

quite more. The road condition within urban area is good, but in

peripheral areas it is not up to the mark.

Miraj is an important railway junction in western Maharashtra.

This junction is connected by broad gauge (towards Pune), metre gauge

(towards Belgaon) and narrow gauge (towards Latur). At present all

routes are changed to broad gauge and providing the service. The

officials of SMK Municipal Corporation have to plan and construct a

number of wide roads in the city, to reduce traffic density on the crowded

streets of Sangli and Miraj.

Chapter-II

- 48 -

DH44D

H40

NH

3

DH45

SH10

DH3

SH

75

DR98

DH42

DH53

DH41

DH

43

DH52

DH

39

DR109

DR112

DH

17

DR113

DR104

SH

138

DR115

DR

81

DR100

DR

105D

R11

0

DR147

DR114

DH54

DR

116

SH39

DR

102

DR

10

1

DH46

DR106

DR

111

DR107

DR108

DH

76

DR

39

DR

85

SH

137

DR79

DR

89

DR38

DH53

DR

110

DR

10

5

DH53

DR100

DH52

NH3

DR114

DH46

DH45

SH

75

SH10

DH53

DR

110

DR109

DR102

DH

44

DR

104

SH138

DH45

DH

46

DH3

DH42

SH138

DH53

DR

113

DH43

DH52

DR

115

DR

113

DR104

DH

46

± Miraj TahsilRoad Network

LegendRoad Types

Scale

National Highway (NH)

State Highway (SH)

District Highway (DH)

District Roads (DR)

Tehsil Roads

City Lanes

Village Gully

Railway

City Streets

6 0 6 12 183

km

Fig.2.9

Source: Based on the Miraj Tahsil road map and Satellite Image

Chapter-II

- 49 -

Table 2.5 Growth of Population in Miraj Tahsil

Period Population

Actual Decadal Variation

Decadal Variation

in %

Annual Variation

in %

Rural

1971 207207 - - -

1981 237332 30125 14.54 1.45

1991 270888 33556 14.14 1.41

2001 293546 22658 8.36 0.84

Urban

1971 201597 - - -

1981 268988 67391 33.43 3.34

1991 363751 94763 35.23 3.52

2001 462502 98751 27.15 2.71

Total

1971 408804 - - -

1981 506320 97516 23.85 2.39

1991 634639 128319 25.34 2.53

2001 756048 121409 19.13 1.91

Source: District Census Handbook of Sangli, 1971 - 2001

2.12 Demographic Dimensions

Dynamics of population is one of the prime aspects of geographical

studies. The demographic attributes such as population growth,

population density and its distribution, sex composition, etc. are used to

understand the condition of the region.

2.12.1 Growth of Population

Population growth is the most fundamental demographic processes

with which change in population during specific time is understood.

Table 2.5 elaborates the population growth and its decadal and annual

variation for the period of 1971 to 2001.

In 1971,

the population

of Miraj tahsil

was 4,08,804

persons, by

1981 it was

5,06,320 with

growth rate

23.85 per cent.

In period of 10

years total

97,516 persons

were added in

which 30,125 persons from rural area and 67391 from urban.

During 1991 population size of the tahsil was 6,34,639 persons, it

rose to 7,56,048 in 2001 and the decadal growth rate was 25.34 per

cent. The rural area is having average 1.2 per cent annual growth rate

whereas in urban area it is 3.2 per cent, which is about three times

more.

Chapter-II

- 50 -

Fig.2.10b Distribution of Rural & Urban Population

Fig.2.10a Population Growth of Miraj Tahsil

In rural areas the

highest growth rate was

recorded during 1971 to

1981 that was 14.54 after

that per decade it starts

decreasing to 14.14 and

8.36 respectively. Same

trend of declining growth

rate of population is noticed

in urban area as well as for

entire Miraj tahsil.

In 1971, population

of rural area was more than

urban but after 1981

population of urban area

starts increasing very fast

and gap between them

become wider and wider.

The population of urban

area is rapidly rising

because of development in industrial sector, increasing job opportunities,

educational centres, commercial activities, etc. in urban areas.

2.12.2 Spatial Distribution of Population

The spatial distribution of population refers to the way people are

spread over the region. The population distribution of Miraj tahsil is

uneven (Fig 2.11), the central part of the tahsil is highly populated than

the peripheral areas. The western part of the tahsil is river side, highly

fertile, and well accessible, so the concentration of population is high. On

the eastern side of tahsil the condition is an opposite. In general the

concentration of population is high in the central part of the tahsil and

Chapter-II

- 51 -

thins out to the peripheries from core. This is a common phenomenon

noticed with all urban centres.

2.12.3 Population Density

The population density is a simple concept of relating population

size to the land area with view to assess crudely the pressure of

population upon the resources of the area (Kurne, 2008). Separate

mapping of 1971 and 2001 dataset has been carried out to understand

Fig.2.11

1 Dot Represents 600 Persons

Miraj Tahsil

Distribution of Population

2001

Chapter-II

- 52 -

the spatio-temporal changes in the density of population (Fig. 2.12). The

population density is grouped into five categories by applying random

class interval method.

2.12.3.1 Areas of Very High Population Density (> 2551 person per sq km)

In 1971 there was only one village, which was in the category of

very high density of population i.e. Madhavnagar. Therefore, in 1971

census it is declared as census town. In 2001, Sangli and Miraj are

1971 & 2001

Fig.2.12 Population Density, 1971 and 2001

1971

2001

Miraj Tahsil

Population Density (1971)

Chapter-II

- 53 -

added in this class and at present only three localities are having

population density more than 2551 persons per sq km.

2.12.3.2 Areas of High Population Density (1051 to 2550 person / sq km)

Sangli was only one area with high population density in 1971. In

2001, four villages are added in this group namely Kupwad, Budhgaon,

Haripur and Bamnoli. Out of these, Kupwad is a part of Municipal

Corporation and Budhgaon was declared as census town in the same

year. Rest Haripur and Bamnoli are the villages but located on the

periphery of urban area, therefore, the density of this area was high

(1051 to 2550 km2).

2.12.3.3 Areas of Medium Population Density (701 to 1050 person / sq km)

In 1971, there were three localities, in the category of medium

population density with 701 to 1050 persons per sq km namely Miraj,

Haripur and Budhgaon. Although Miraj was having Nagarpalika and long

historical background, it was coming under medium population density.

In 2001, villages Inam Dhamni, Ankali, Takali and Padmale are in this

category. These villages are on the periphery of Sangli and Miraj,

therefore, leap frog urban development can be noticed in these localities

hence, population density has increased.

2.12.3.4 Areas of Low Population Density (351 to 700 person / sq km)

In 1971, there were 10 villages in this category of low population

density with 351 to 700 persons per sq km. In 2001, same group

contains 23 villages. The villages in the western side of tahsil are in this

class except village Sheri Kavathe.

2.12.3.5 Areas of Very Low Population (< 350 person / sq km)

This is the last category containing less than 350 persons per sq

km, but it is having highest number of villages. In 1971, there were 38

villages and in 2001 it becomes 32 villages. The eastern side of the

villages is laying in this class because of low population and total village

area is also quite big.

Chapter-II

- 54 -

2.13 Sex Composition

Sex ratio is one of the important social indicators to assess the

balance of male female population in the society.

Table 2.6 Sex Composition of Miraj Tahsil

Year Category Male Female Total Sex Ratio (per 1000

Male)

1971

Rural 108143 (50.36)

99064 (51.04)

207207 (50.69)

916

Urban 106587 (49.64)

95010 (48.96)

201597 (49.31)

891

Total 214730 194074 408804 904

1981

Rural 123005 (46.68)

114327 (47.08)

237332 (46.87)

929

Urban 140496 (53.32)

128492 (52.92)

268988 (53.13)

915

Total 263501 242819 506320 922

1991

Rural 140482 (42.71)

130406 (42.66)

270888 (42.68)

928

Urban 188468 (57.29)

175283 (57.34)

363751 (57.32)

930

Total 328950 305689 634639 929

2001

Rural 151386 (38.90)

142160 (38.75)

293546 (38.83)

939

Urban 237763 (61.10)

224739 (61.25)

462502 (61.17)

945

Total 389149 366899 756048 943

Source: District Census Handbook of Sangli, 1971 - 2001

The sex composition details are useful in the several planning

activities, analysis of other demographic characters and economic aspect.

The female sex ratio of Miraj tahsil is continuously increasing. In 1971,

the sex ratio was 904 females per 1000 males, 916 in rural and 891 in

urban area (Table2.6). During 1981 sex ratio was 922, which augmented

to 929 in 1991 and in 2001 it increased by 14 points to 943 and in rural

and urban areas the figures were 939 and 945 respectively. The

percentage of females in 1971 was 47 and male was 53, whereas in 2001

the female percentage has increased to 49 and male 51(Fig2.14).

Fig.2.13 Sex Composition

Chapter-II

- 55 -

2.14 Conclusion

Miraj tahsil is situated in south-western part of state on the border

of Maharashtra and Karnataka. This tahsil has influencing on adjacent

areas because it is having various factors like railway junction, hospitals

and medical facilities, famous market yard, district administrative

headquarter, etc. Miraj tahsil is having dynamic nature by its physical

and human resources. It possess diversity like dry as well as well

irrigated agricultural land, it is having major rivers as well as drought

prone area, there is mixture of soil pattern, etc. Also Miraj is the most

urbanized tahsil in Sangli district. Considering its growth and expansion

it is essential to make proper planning for utilization of physical and

human resources.

The relative relief of the study area is 300m and except north-

eastern uplifted parts rest tahsil is having average height within 500 to

650 metre. River Krishna and Warana have played major role in the

Fig.2.14 Male-Female Population Distribution

Chapter-II

- 56 -

transformations occurred in the tahsil. The soil of this area varies from

deep black (near river vicinity) to shallow rocky (towards eastern part)

and its tone is varying from dark black to light brown. The increasing

proportion of salt affected soil is major problem in the western part of

tahsil. Only one per cent land is under forest and is decreasing day by

day, which is another serious problem. As per morphometric analysis the

elongation ratio of Miraj tahsil is 0.57 and this area is not having sharper

flood hydrology. In other words the rainfall water will not reach the basin

at same time.

The concentration of population is high in the central part of the

tahsil, which is an urban area. Sangli, Miraj and Madhavnagar are

having population density more than 2551 persons per sq km. The leap

frog urban development is found in the villages around urban area e.g.

towards Haripur, Bamnoli, Subhash Nagar, Sangliwadi outskirts, etc.

The percentage of female population is 49%, which is near about equal to

male. The female literacy is increasing remarkably in both urban and

rural areas and its credit goes to government policies as well as parents.

2.15 Suggestions

During the study of physical and socio-economic set-up of Miraj

tahsil few suggestions are come-up those are listed below.

The roads are considered as vein in the development process of an

area. The roads condition in rural areas particularly in eastern

part of tahsil is so worst hence duly attention has to be paid on it.

The road width has to be increase in the gaothan areas to avoid

traffic problems and accidents.

The climatic data is very much important for planning and there is

variation in the recorded data. Therefore, the count of climatic

observation centres in the tahsil needs to be increase and also

maintain proper records.

Chapter-II

- 57 -

The unused tube wells have to be use for rainwater harvesting to

increase the level of ground water applying rain water harvesting

programs. This will be helpful for flora and fauna in the Miraj

tahsil.

References:

Andrew, Mason (1997): Will Populat1ion Change Sustain the ‘Asian Economic

Miracle’? East-West Center, Asia Pacific Issue No. 33 Oct-1997.

Bureau of Economics and Statistics, Govt. of Maharashtra (1971-72, 1981-82,

1991-92, 2001-02, 2006-07): Socio-economic Reviews and District

Statistical Abstracts of Sangli District.

Census of India (1971, 1981, 1991, 2001): District Census Handbook Sangli,

Census of India, Maharashtra.

Chandna, R.C. and Sidhu, Manjit S. (1980): Introduction to population geography,

Kalyani publishers, New Delhi, pp.76

Chaugule, J.B. (1988): Eco-Morphological Analysis of Warana River Basin –

Study in Regional Development, Unpublished Ph. D. Thesis, Shivaji

University, Kolhapur.

Gaikwad, S.B. (2003): Drought Prone Area of Sangli District: A Geographical

Study, Ph. D. Thesis submitted to Shivaji University, Kolhapur.

Gaikwad, Shrikrishna B. (1993): Post independence Growth of sugar Industry in

Maharashtra: A Geographical Appraisal, Ph. D. Thesis submitted to Shivaji

University, Kolhapur.

Jadhav, M.G. (1980): Sugarcane Cultivation in Upper Krishna Basin:

Geographical Analysis, Unpublished Ph. D. Thesis submitted to Shivaji

University Kolhapur.

Jagtap, J.P. (1985): Distribution of Soil Patterns in Sangli District, M. Phil Thesis

submitted to Shivaji University, Kolhapur. pp. 9-25.

Kulkarni, K.G. (1983): Sangli District: A Study in Rural Settlement, Ph. D. Thesis

submitted to Shivaji University, Kolhapur.

Kurni, M.S. (2008): Urban Growth and its Impact on Environment in Belgaum

City, Ph. D. Thesis submitted to, Karnataka University Dharwad.

Chapter-II

- 58 -

Nagaraj, H. (1997): Changing Pattern of Agricultural Development in Chitradurga

District – A Spatio-Temporal Analysis, Ph. D., Thesis submitted to

Bangalore University Bangalore.

Patil, P.V. (2002): Geographical Analysis of Agricultural Technology in Sangli

District, Ph D. Thesis submitted to Shivaji University, Kolhapur.

Pawer, C.T. (1981): Irrigation and its impact on agricultural landuse in upper

Krishna basin (Maharashtra), Ph. D. thesis, Shivaji University, Kolhapur pp

4-6.

Ramotra, K.C. (2004): Spatial Patterns of Urbanization in Maharashtra, Trajectory

(A Journal of Research Articles), Rayat Shikshan Sanstha, Vol. 1, pp. 32-

40.

Other References:

Satellite Image of Sangli (2007): Satellite Image of Sangli from Digital Globe.

Survey of India Toposheet (1940): 47/L9 (1:63360 Scale)

Survey of India Toposheet (1995): 47/L9/NW, 47/L9/SW, 47/L9/SE (1:25,000

Scale)

Survey of India Toposheet (1995): 47/L9 (1:50,000 Scale)

Urban Planning Reports (1971): Regional Planning Report of Sangli-Miraj Urban

area.

Web References:

Google Earth (Version-5.1.3533.1731) 2009:

http://www.kh.google.com

KOSMO: Open Source GIS Software (2009):

www.opengis.es

National Family Health Survey (NFHS-3) (2010):

http://www.nfhsindia.org//

Office of the Registrar General, India (2001):

http://www.censusindia.net/ and

http://censusindia.gov.in/Census_Data_2001/Census_data_finder/H_Series/

Household_Size.htm

Physiography (2010):

http://sangli.nic.in/htmldocs/district_at_a_glance.htm

Chapter-II

- 59 -

Sangli District Gazetteer (2006):

HTTP://WWW.MAHARASHTRA.GOV.IN/ENGLISH/GAZETTEER/S

ANGLI/

Wikipedia (2010):

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sangli