Urban Settlements| Class 12 Geography Notes
Last Updated :
23 Apr, 2024
Class 12 Geography Notes: These notes on Urban Settlements are really helpful for class 12 students preparing for their CBSE board exams. It covers everything students need to know about urban settlements, like what they are, how they function, and the problems they face.
They’re easy to understand and provide all the key information students need to know. With these notes, students can study effectively and feel confident when answering exam questions. They’re a great resource for students aiming to do well in their Geography exams.
Urban Settlements
Urban settlements, unlike rural ones, are larger and more compact. They are bustling hubs of non-agricultural activities, including economic and administrative functions. As mentioned before, cities are closely connected to the rural areas surrounding them.
This connection involves the exchange of goods and services, sometimes directly and sometimes through various market towns and cities. So, cities are not just linked directly to villages but also to each other, forming a complex network of connections.
Evolution of Towns in India
Towns have been part of India’s landscape since ancient times. Even during the Indus Valley Civilization, towns like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro thrived.
This trend continued through various periods of evolution, with ups and downs, until the arrival of Europeans in the 18th century.
Based on their evolution over different periods, Indian towns can be classified into three main categories:
- Ancient Towns
- Medieval Towns
- Modern Towns
Ancient Towns: India boasts numerous towns with a rich historical background spanning over 2000 years. Many of these towns evolved as significant religious and cultural centers. Varanasi stands out as a prime example, along with Prayag (Allahabad), Pataliputra (Patna), and Madurai, among others.
Medieval Towns: Around 100 towns in India trace their roots back to the medieval period. These towns typically emerged as the headquarters of principalities and kingdoms. They are often characterized as fort towns, established on the ruins of ancient settlements. Key examples include Delhi, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, Agra, and Nagpur.
Modern Towns: The British and other European powers played a significant role in developing modern towns in India. Initially, they focused on coastal trading ports like Surat, Daman, Goa, and Pondicherry.
Later, they concentrated on major nodes such as Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata, constructing them in the British architectural style. They expanded their influence through administrative centers, hill stations for summer retreats, and industrial areas like Jamshedpur.
After-independence, India saw the emergence of administrative hubs like Chandigarh, Bhubaneswar, Gandhinagar, and Dispur, along with industrial centers like Durgapur, Bhilai, Sindri, and Barauni. Old towns transformed into satellite towns around metropolitan cities, exemplified by Ghaziabad, Rohtak, and Gurugram around Delhi. Moreover, with increased investment in rural areas, numerous medium and small towns have sprung up across the country.
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FAQs on Urban Settlements Class 12 Geography Notes
What are urban settlements?
Urban settlements refer to densely populated areas where people live in compact and organized communities. These areas are characterized by non-agricultural activities such as industries, commerce, administration, and services.
How are urban settlements different from rural settlements?
Urban settlements are generally more densely populated and larger in size compared to rural settlements. They primarily engage in non-agricultural economic activities, whereas rural settlements depend largely on agriculture. Urban areas also tend to have better infrastructure and access to services.
What are some examples of urban settlements in India?
Examples of urban settlements in India include cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Pune, among others. These cities are major centers of economic activity, administration, and culture.
What are the challenges faced by urban settlements in India?
Urban settlements in India face challenges such as overcrowding, inadequate infrastructure, traffic congestion, pollution, housing shortages, and social inequality. Addressing these challenges requires effective urban planning and governance.
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