African Journal of Geography and Regional Planning
African Journal of Geography and Regional Planning (AJGRP), ISSN 2736-1586 is an Unpaid Open Access, Fully Refereed and Peer Reviewed International Journal. Notably, it is a Referred, Highly Indexed, Online International Journal . AJGRP is published as a Monthly Journal with 12 issues per year. We also host International and National Conferences to publish their research work. AJGRP covers all disciplines including Arts, Science, Commerce, Social-Sciences, Management and Engineering. AJGRP always strives to be a platform for Academicians, new Researchers, Authors, Engineers, Technocrats and Engineering Scholars. Since inception, AJGRP is continuously publishing original and best quality research articles. The Journal was under International Scholars Journal (ISJ PUBLISHING COMPANY) Till December 2024.
A Unified Geoai Hybrid Framework For African Windscapes: Integrating Evolutionary Swarm, Fuzzy-Neuro Computing, And Probabilistic Spatio-Temporal Wind Forecasting For Sustainable Regional Energy Planning
Africa is expected to contribute more than fifty gigawatts of installed wind-generation capacity by 2035, but the practical utilization of this operational capacity on national and regional grids is limited/ hampered by the persistent occlusion of point-forecast methodologies ill-fit to the continent's diverse orographic, monsoonal, & continental/coastal wind regimes. In this work, we propose an integrated hybrid GeoAI of a multi-paradigm approach that comprehensively unifies four popular computational intelligence paradigms (evolutionary algorithms; particle swarm optimization; adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference; and convolutional-recurrent deep learning) into one five-layer architecture for probabilistic spatiotemporal wind speed forecasting at a pan-African scale across twelve diverse sites in seven countries including South Africa, Egypt, Morocco, Kenya, Ethiopia, Mauritania and Senegal. The framework utilizes 736,416 hourly observations over January 2018 to December 2024 obtained from ERA5 reanalysis, MERRA-2, NASA POWER, and Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) mesoscale downscaling with SRTM digital elevation and land-cover layers at a grid resolution of 0.25° × 0.25°. The output layer renders probabilistic forecasts at five quantiles (τ =0.05, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, and 0.95) across five forecast horizons (1 h,6 h,24 h,72 h and 168h). Bootstraped with a Lyapunov-stability theorem, the hybrid framework converges in 75 iterations to a best-so-far RMes of 0.51 m/s (45 %lower than relative dynamical predictor, CNN-LSTM baseline = 0.92 m/s). A continuous ranked probability score (CRPS) of 0.31 m/s and a near uniform PIT histogram confirm the well-calibrated probabilistic forecasts. As a conclusion, the computational complexity is (N · T · log T ·d) where the number of sites, the time horizon (size of your input sequences), the feature dimension. The deterministic World Bank is a powerful uplift in capacity-factor estimation, with implementation of the probabilistic forecasts producing an effective uplift of 3.3–4.3 percentage points across the twelve sites tested against this baseline ∼320 GWh/year extra useable generation across the surveyed African wind portfolio. The framework delineates a methodologically firm, computationally feasible and operationally applicable GeoAI pathway to climate resilient regional energy planning in Sub-Saharan and North Africa.
Copyright (c) 2026 Authors https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Analysis of Paddy Expansion on Topographically Unsuitable Land Using GIS: A Study of Sardulgarh Block
Groundwater depletion has become a critical concern in the semi-arid regions of Punjab due to the expansion of water-intensive rice cultivation. This study analyzes the spatial and temporal relationship between groundwater decline and rice crop distribution in Sardulgarh block, Mansa district, using geospatial techniques. Multi-temporal datasets, including Digital Elevation Model (DEM), groundwater level data (2015 and 2023), and satellite imagery from AWiFS (2015) and Landsat (2025), were utilized. Unsupervised classification was applied to map rice cultivation, while change detection analysis was conducted to assess variations in groundwater levels and cropping patterns. The results indicate a significant decline in groundwater levels, with a shift toward deeper water table categories across the study area. Despite this, rice cultivation has expanded considerably, including in topographically unsuitable areas identified through slope analysis. The findings reveal a clear mismatch between land suitability and cropping practices, highlighting unsustainable agricultural trends. The study emphasizes the urgent need for crop diversification and improved groundwater management strategies to ensure long-term sustainability in the region.
Groundwater depletion, Rice cultivation, GIS, Remote sensing, Unsupervised classification, Land suitability
Application Of Nudge Theory In Solid Waste Management In Indore
The rapid urbanization of Indian cities has brought with it escalating challenges in municipal solid waste (MSW) management. This report examines the Integrated Solid Waste Management (ISWM) model adopted by Indore; a city recognized for its exemplary cleanliness under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. Through a qualitative analysis of secondary data, government records, academic research, and a primary public survey, the report highlights key components of Indore's success: source segregation, community participation, technological innovations, decentralized waste processing, and effective governance. The study also explores the use of behavioral economics, particularly Nudge Theory, in promoting pro-environmental behaviors such as waste segregation. While Indore's approach offers valuable lessons in urban waste management, the report also identifies persistent challenges, including financial sustainability, treatment capacity constraints, and behavioral resistance. The findings emphasize the importance of adapting ISWM models to local contexts and integrating policy, technology, and citizen engagement for sustainable urban development.
Municipal Solid Waste (MSW), Waste Segregation, Nudge Theory, Community Participation, Recycling.
Water Conservation Practices In The Indian Knowledge System: Regional Traditions And Their Relevance To Contemporary Water Challenges
Water scarcity, depletion of groundwater resources, and hydrological variability due to climate change have come to be recognized as major challenges in the twenty-first century. Although contemporary water management practices are dominated by large-scale infrastructure and technological solutions, traditional knowledge systems provide sustainable, decentralized, and ecologically friendly alternatives. The Indian Knowledge System (IKS) represents a treasure trove of water conservation knowledge developed over the millennia in different ecological zones. This paper explores region-specific water conservation traditions in ancient and traditional India, including stepwells, tanks, johads, kuls, ahar-pyne systems, bamboo drip irrigation systems, and temple tanks, and assesses their relevance in the context of contemporary water challenges. The paper contends that the integration of IKS with modern scientific knowledge can improve water security, resilience, and sustainability.
Indian Knowledge System, Water Conservation, Traditional Water Management, Sustainability, Climate Change, Indigenous Knowledge
Saransh Ukey, Rohit Ranjan, Akshay Kumar Jain
Groundwater Resources in Haryana: A Geographical Analysis of Depletion, Quality and Management
Haryana, one of the most agriculturally productive states in India, is experiencing an unprecedented decline in groundwater levels, threatening long-term water security and agricultural sustainability. This study examines the spatial and temporal patterns of groundwater depletion across all 21 districts of Haryana using secondary data from the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), the Haryana State Government, and district-level hydrogeological surveys conducted between 2008 and 2018. The study finds that out of 112 assessed groundwater blocks, 41.1% are classified as over-exploited, 28.6% as critical, and 16.1% as semi-critical, leaving only 14.2% as safe. Pre-monsoon water table depths in districts such as Gurgaon, Hisar, and Faridabad have declined to alarming levels exceeding 20 metres below ground level (mbgl). Water quality analysis reveals elevated concentrations of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), fluoride, nitrate, and arsenic, particularly in southern and south-western districts. The primary driver of depletion is identified as intensive irrigation in the Green Revolution belt, exacerbated by inadequate recharge, poor drainage, and the absence of an enforceable groundwater regulation framework. The paper recommends an integrated groundwater management approach combining rainwater harvesting, crop diversification, micro-irrigation, and community participation as essential steps for reversing current trends.
Groundwater depletion, Haryana, water table, water quality, over-exploitation, CGWB, aquifer management, Green Revolution
Lovelogy: Toward An Integrative Science Of Human Love
Background: Love influences mental and physical health, relational stability, prosocial behavior, learning, and social cohesion, yet the scientific literature remains fragmented across disciplines and often relies on heterogeneous definitions and metrics (Berscheid, 2010; Holt-Lunstad, Smith, & Layton, 2010). Objective: To propose and delimit Lovelogy as an integrative scientific field dedicated to the systematic study of love, providing explicit demarcation criteria, a shared minimal theoretical core, and a reproducible agenda for measurement, mechanisms, and interventions (Sternberg, 1986; Hazan & Shaver, 1987). Approach: This position paper synthesizes major research traditions—component models of love, adult attachment, compassionate love, communal norms, and social neuroscience—and articulates an operational architecture (the MAA Model) alongside a methodological pathway for scale development and validation (Clark & Watson, 1995; Hu & Bentler, 1999; Putnick & Bornstein, 2016). Contributions: The paper (1) defines Lovelogy and differentiates it from adjacent constructs and non-scientific discourse; (2) proposes an operationalizable model (MAA: Bond, Eros, Care, Relational Ethics) with falsifiable predictions; (3) outlines minimum methodological standards (EFA/CFA, omega, measurement invariance, dyadic designs) and an ethical framework to prevent conceptual and applied misuse (Lilius et al., 2008; Young & Wang, 2004). Implications: Lovelogy offers a common language and practical tools for education, health, organizations, and public policy—particularly in response to loneliness, relational violence, and erosion of social trust (Holt-Lunstad et al., 2010). Limitations: As a programmatic manuscript, it presents no primary data. Empirical validation is required to test incremental validity versus adjacent constructs and to examine cross-cultural invariance and intervention effectiveness (Clark & Watson, 1995; Putnick & Bornstein, 2016).
Lovelogy; science of love; attachment; compassionate love; relational ethics; relationships; psychometrics; well-being; open science.
Flood Risk and Adaptation to Climate Change in India: A Review
Climate change has posed a growing risk of floods in India with millions of lives at a risk each year. This review looks at the flood vulnerability, risk assessment procedures and adaptation approaches in Indian settings. The research examines the peer-reviewed literature, government reports, and climate data to learn about the flood patterns, social-economic consequences, and institutional responses. In the hypothesis, it is stated that climate change increases the frequency and severity of floods in India and must be dealt with in an integrated manner. The methodology includes the systematic literature review of 78 research articles, policy reports, and statistical databases published in 2010-2024. Findings show that the floods are on the rise in Brahmaputra, Ganga and coastal areas with the populations at risk reaching up to 40 million. There are threats that are aggravated by urbanization, deforestation, and poor infrastructure. The gaps in the early warning systems, community-based adaptation, and policy implementation are pointed out in the discussion. Some of the effective strategies are: ecosystem based adaptation, better drainage systems, and infrastructure that is resistant to climate. The concluding points include multi-stakeholder cooperation, integration of indigenous knowledge and sustainable land-use planning. One of the recommendations is to enhance disaster preparedness and institutional capacity, and nature-based flood mitigation solutions in the diverse ecological and socio-economic environment of India. DOI: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/12.2025-95953882
Flood risk, climate change adaptation, vulnerability assessment, disaster management, India.
Environmental Law And Carbon Credit Mechanisms: Pathways To Climate-Smart Sustainability
Climate change represents one of humanity's most pressing challenges, necessitating comprehensive legal frameworks and innovative market mechanisms. This research paper examines the evolution and effectiveness of environmental law in conjunction with carbon credit mechanisms as instruments for achieving climate-smart sustainability. The tudy analyzes India's Carbon Credit Trading Scheme, 20231 established under the Energy Conservation (Amendment) Act, 20222, alongside the international legal framework provided by the Paris Agreement3 and its Article 6 provisions4 for cooperative carbon market approaches. Through doctrinal analysis of statutory provisions, regulatory frameworks, and comparative examination of international carbon trading systems, this paper demonstrates how legal mechanisms transform environmental protection from regulatory compliance into economically viable sustainability pathways. The research emphasizes the critical role of robust legal infrastructure in ensuring environmental integrity, preventing double counting, and mobilizing climate finance for achieving India's Nationally Determined Contributions and global net-zero targets.
मध्यकालीन भारत में धार्मिक सहिष्णुता और सांस्कृतिक समन्वय का अध्ययन
मध्यकालीन भारत (8वीं से 18वीं शताब्दी) धार्मिक सहिष्णुता और सांस्कृतिक समन्वय का एक अनोखा युग था। इस शोध पत्र का उद्देश्य इस काल में विभिन्न धार्मिक संप्रदायों के बीच सह-अस्तित्व और सांस्कृतिक संयोजन-जाटकों का विश्लेषण करना है। शोध पत्र में भक्ति आंदोलन, सूफी आंदोलन, और मुगल अलाबेंज, अकबर की सुलह-ए-कुल की नीति का व्यापक अध्ययन किया गया है। विश्लेषणात्मक पद्धति अपनाते हुए यह शोध ऐतिहासिक पुरातत्वों, समकालीन अभिलेखों और विद्वानों के शोध कार्यकलापों पर आधारित है। अवशेष हैं कि मध्यकालीन भारत में धार्मिक सहिष्णुता केवल एक राजनीतिक रणनीति नहीं थी, बल्कि यह सामाजिक-सांस्कृतिक जीवन का सिद्धांत था। भक्ति और सूफी संतों ने जाति और धर्म की सीमाओं को पार करते हुए हितकारी संदेश दिया। मुगल शासकों, अलैह अकबर ने विधानसभा के माध्यम से धार्मिक समन्वय को बढ़ावा दिया। इस अध्ययन से स्पष्ट होता है कि मध्यकालीन भारत की बहुलतावादी परंपरा आधुनिक भारत की पुस्तकालय व्यवस्था की स्थापना रही है।
मध्यकालीन भारत, धार्मिक सहिष्णुता, भक्ति आंदोलन, सूफीवाद, सांस्कृतिक सहयोग
Green Finance In India: Growth, Opportunities, And Challenges
The evolution of green finance in India and throughout the world is the focus of this article. Both the level of public knowledge and the availability of finance for environmentally friendly projects have been evaluated using data from a variety of sources. Results show that public awareness and funding options in India have improved, but that more cooperation among stakeholders and a decrease in asymmetric information could lead to more environmentally friendly and sustainable long-term economic growth. DOI: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/10.2025-49983682
: Green Finance, Sustainability, Public policy, Green lending, Green bonds, Borrowing costs, Information asymmetry.
Policy and Business Model Innovations for Sustainable Growth of Power Loom Enterprises in Mau
This research investigates policy and business model innovations essential for sustainable growth of power loom enterprises in Mau district, Uttar Pradesh. The study employs a mixed-method approach analyzing secondary data from Ministry of Textiles, industry reports, and empirical research from 2020-2024. The power loom sector contributes 58.4% of India's total cloth production and employs over 6 million workers directly and indirectly. In Mau, traditionally known for saree production and zari work, power loom enterprises face challenges including outdated technology, inadequate infrastructure, limited access to finance, and insufficient policy support. The research examines existing government schemes like PowerTex India, Comprehensive Powerloom Cluster Development Scheme (CPCDS), and PM MITRA parks. Key findings reveal that successful sustainable growth requires integrated policy frameworks combining technology upgradation, skill development, market linkages, and environmental sustainability measures. The study proposes innovative business models incorporating circular economy principles, digital integration, and value chain optimization. Results indicate that policy interventions focusing on cluster development, financial inclusion, and export promotion can enhance competitiveness and sustainability. The research concludes that coordinated efforts between government, industry stakeholders, and financial institutions are crucial for achieving sustainable growth targets in Mau's power loom sector.
Power loom enterprises, Policy innovation, Sustainable growth, Business model, Mau district
Finding the growth rate during formation of South American community of Nations
This article considers computation technique of the growth rate during formation of South American Community of Nations. Found values of growth are compared with the ones previously computed for Mexico and Canada under the formation of NAFTA in 1994, and much higher to the ones observed under formation of the EurAzEC in 2000 and the 2004 EU expansion. The method of computing the rate of growth in cases of economic integration requires statistics of the value added of sectors and domestic savings rates of member states willing to be economically integrated.
Modelling international economic integration, growth rate of the GDP, Latin American economic integration.
The role and function of small towns in rural development using network analysis method case: Roniz rural district (Estahban city, province Fars, Iran)
Problems resulted from the development of the large cities, population density and also immigration of rustics to these cities made planners to pay more attention to reinforcement and development of small towns. It is believed that by strengthening small towns we can change the way of immigration of rustics to larger cities and solve many problems of rural regions resulted from the lack of proper access of rustics to services centers. In Iran by performing the policy of changing villages to cities, many rural regions have been changed to cities especially during the last two decades. The current town of Roniz in Estahban city, Fars province, is one of the towns which have been changed into a town in 1990. The purpose of this paper is to study the role and function of Roniz town as a small civic center in the development of rural regions in its surrounding. In this direction by choosing 5 functions in the form of 20 variables and using network analysis method we have studied and compared the current affairs and relations in the understudied village in two intervals before and after Roniz becomes a town. The results of studies indicates that Roniz town as a central place, have played an important role in giving services to the regions in its surrounding which has consequently caused to reduce the dependence of rural regions to city center.
Small town, rural development, network analysis, urban-rural relations, Roniz town.
Land use changes and environmental stress accounting (case study from northwestern part of the Czech-German borderland)
The authors assess the long-term changes in utilisation of the territory (1845 - 2005). They apply a new methodology called environmental stress accounting. They notice qualitative changes in how utilisation of the territory develops. They assess the stress-causing effects on both the natural subsystem (ecological stress) as well as on the social subsystem (social stress). The aggregate result is a methodology measuring environmental stress, as a sum of stress existing in the natural and social subsystem. The methodology can be applied in a randomly chosen territory at various time scales. It reflects the external spatial relations, i.e. relations with localities beyond the model territory, and indicates causal effects (driving forces). Driving forces directly or indirectly affect the structure and function of the landscape and at the same time the landscape can retroactively be one of the impulses for origination and modification of the given driving force. The process of mutual interaction of driving forces and the landscape is monitored in three different landscape types of the Czech-German border area: 1) “mining landscape”, 2) “intensive agriculture” and 3) “highland marginal landscape”. We analyse changes in the use of the landscape and the trend in environmental stress in four time phases that are mutually differentiated by their specific characteristics. They generally correspond to stages of change in Czech society: pre-industrial, industrial, totalitarian (final phase of the industrial period) and post-industrial period.
Environmental stress, land use changes, driving forces, Czech-German borderland.
Foreign investors and their perceptions of socioinstitutional and entrepreneurial environment in the Czech Republic: A pilot study
The paper examines the role of a favourable milieu in the region and the notion of social capital, work ethics and mutual confidence. Results of an empirical survey conducted among the foreign entrepreneurs in the Czech Republic are presented in the paper. The survey revealed opinions of foreign investors on cooperation and communication with various institutions in their environment. It also answered questions on the willingness to cooperate and the possibility of creation of cooperation networks of Czech and foreign firms in the local economy and analysed opinions and ideas about the general quality of the Czech entrepreneurial environment.
Foreign investors, socio-institutional environment, entrepreneurial environment, Czech Republic, structured interviews, pilot study.
The collapse of oil prices by 76% from July 2008 to January 2009 has brought apparent economic relief to both many developed and developing countries around the world. However, this precipitous collapse in price has stalled investment in the oil industry – many maintenance or development projects have been shelved or cancelled completely. So the decline in oil supplies will be even faster than we had originally anticipated. As future demand for oil picks up again from renewed economic development, the prices of crude oil are expected to soar to new record highs
Oil price, oil supply, oil demand, economic development, Olduvai theory, peak oil.
Accuracy and cost comparison of spatial dataacquisition methods for the development of geographical information systems
One of the main components of a Geographic Information System (GIS) is the formation of the database. More than 70% of the time and cost is spent on developing this database. The success of a GIS project depends on the accuracy and currentness of the obtained spatial data required for development of the GIS project. This study presents analyses of the accuracy and costs of several methods of obtaining spatial data for a GIS project in a test area selected at the Campus of Konya Selcuk University. The conventional and Real Time Kinematic Global Positioning System methods were found to be appropriate for GIS projects requiring high accuracy (e.g. cadastral, public work, or infrastructure projects). On the other hand, photogrammetric methods, digitising and scanning, and high resolution satellite images (remote sensing) were determined to be the most suitable methods for GIS projects requiring lower accuracy over large areas (e.g. in environmental management, highways, railways, forestry, disaster management, land consolidation).
Geographic Information System (GIS), Global Positioning System (GPS), detail measurements, remote sensing, digital orthophotograph.
Integrated method to extract information from high and very high resolution RS images for urban planning
The aim of this research is to propose an integrated methodology for the extraction of information from high and very high resolution satellite images and also to demonstrate how the extracted information can be used for urban area studies. For the information extraction, three different approaches such as interpretation, automatic and artificial intelligence methods are used. As the interpretation method a visual interpretation is used, whereas as the automatic method a refined maximum likelihood classification that uses spatial thresholds defined from the local knowledge is applied. For the artificial intelligence method, a rule-based algorithm which consists of a set of rules, containing an initial image segmentation procedure as well as the constraints on spectral parameters and spatial thresholds is constructed. Overall, the research indicates that the high and very high resolution satellite images can be successfully used for general and detailed urban studies and the proposed methods can be efficiently used for the extraction of accurate thematic information.
Interpretation, automatic, artificial intelligence, urban study, satellite image
D. Amarsaikhan, M. Ganzorig, B. Nergui, R. Gantuya
Water uncertainties in Southeastern Nigeria: Why government should be interested in management
This paper takes a look at the general condition of water resources availability and management practices in Akwa Ibom State, southeastern Nigeria. The paper observes high incidence of inequity and access burdens on the general population (especially the vulnerable groups) as well as reckless incidence of exploitation of the aquifer for private market. These were all linked to weak government involvements in the management of the resource, a situation that has given rise to uncertainties relating to the survival and the ability of the resource system to sustain livelihoods beyond this generation. The observations in the study reflect the general absence of a strong government commitment in Nigeria to managing water resources with specific concerns on the survival of the ecosystem. While striving to meet the various international commitments on universalizing water access and services, the paper cautions that meeting human needs for water should not be at a degenerating cost to the ecosystem. In the recommendation, the paper advocates a centralized and coordinated water management practices with an ecosystem focus. Attaining this requires strong precautionary policies on water demand management backed up by effective regulatory measures to ensure optimum and balanced supply, efficient use as well as the protection of the natural system.
Emmanuel M. Akpabio* and Ekanem M. Ekanem
Rural water utilization: Factors affecting aquaculture in Owo local government area of Ondo State, Nigeria
The study was on factors affecting aquaculture in Owo local government area of Ondo state, Nigeria. Despite the challenges being faced by the rural people of the study area in accessing water for various uses, they still had a very good utilization of the available water for aquaculture. However, several factors of which the major ones were number of ponds owned, size of farm, years of aquaculture experience and cost of land with some others were still affecting aquaculture in the study area. Regression analysis result showed that the number of ponds owned (0.727) and size of farm (0.071) were positively correlated to the farmers revenue while years of experience (-0.041) and cost of land (-0.513) had negative impact on farmers revenue. The concept of costs, returns and profitability is also discussed to show how well aquaculture was doing in the study area as a source of income generation.
The new urban issue: A journey into the Italian city and its sensitive areas
The transformation of the urban horizon shows a heterotropical fragmentation which is a transverse phenomenon. Some parts of the city are showing new combinations of functions and populations: these are simply juxtaposed, with neither contacts nor communications. While some places/populations are losing functions, suffering economic changes and weakening the sociability skills, some others are more widely connected elsewhere. Marginalisation processes may be found all over the city. Old suburbs and new critical areas can be mentioned as „sensitive areas‟, far beyond their geographical position on the city map. The studies carried out indicate that sensitive areas in the city are very interesting points of view in order to observe and understand the social changes and trends of contemporary development processes.
Global connections, urban life, dislocation, heterotopical, crisis of sociability, spirals of abandonment.
Assessment of water balance indices in Nigeria over two years with contrasting moisture condition
A routine study of water balance is a veritable tool in monitoring the amount of water that will be available in the soil of any particular place at a particular time for optimal crop production and other uses. This study assessed water balance indices in Nigeria over two years with contrasting moisture condition. Mean monthly air temperature and monthly rainfall data for 1983 and 2003 were sourced from the archives of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) with respect to twenty-seven weather stations across Nigeria. The data were subjected to Thornwaite’s and Climatic water budgeting procedure to estimate water balance indices such as potential evapotranpiration, actual evapotranspiration, water deficit and water surplus. Paired sample test revealed that there is a significance difference between the water balance indices of a dry year and a wet year and across different locations in Nigeria [p=.000]. This study concluded that there is no uniformity in the pattern of water balance indices across Nigeria for over two years. It is recommended that more functional irrigation projects be established in those locations where water deficit is higher in order to boost their crop production throughout the year in Nigeria.
Water balance indices, actual evapotranpiration, potential evapotranspitraion, water deficit, water surplus.
Kehinde Musa Oladejo, Aliyu Tambuwal Umar
Evolution of Harare as Zimbabwe’s Capital City and a major Central Place in Southern Africa in the context of by Byland’s model of settlement evolution
Settlement evolution of most global cities follows certain settlement patterns and by land’s Model is one model that explains the general evolution of such settlements. Harare is no exception in this general pattern of settlement evolution, yet to a greater extent by land’s Model is rather too simplistic to fully account for the evolution of this city. It should be noted that as a Model, it lacks universality and the historical attributes of Zimbabwe characterized by a prolonged colonial era between 1890 and 1980 creates a certain uniqueness which forces a need for manipulation of by land’s model. Although by land’s model is descriptive, it can be equated to several other models and theories of city evolution, urbanization and urban growth. Fourastie’s Schema is a basic socio-economic model which explains evolution of settlement structures of city regions from the Pre-industrial to Post-industrial period (Jacobson et al., 1998). There is a marked increase in literature concerning urbanization, urban and city studies in recent times and this is due to the urgent need by Planners and Public Administrators to maintain a balance between economic development and modernization on one hand and the reduction of the social and environmental ill effects of rapid modernization on the other, more so in developing nations. (Ibid). By land’s model spans over an extensive historical time scale and there is no doubt that stages 4 and 5 which respectively represent the industrial and post -industrial periods are major global concerns in the modern times. A universal theory that explains city dynamics and integrates historical, economic, social, demographic and spatial aspects is absent. In fact, the technical limitation of systematized urban studies at macro-level lay mainly in the heterogeneity and diversity of micro or macro regions in as far as these components are concerned. In view of these aspects, By land’s model is tested on Harare and shows relevance in its much later stages. His model is ample testimony to the fact that unanimous classification of world cities is impossible.
Settlement evolution, settlement patterns, settlement expansion, slums, Byland‟s model.
Vulnerability of traditional beef sector to drought and the challenges of climate change: The case of Kgatleng District, Botswana
Cattle’s rearing in Botswana is undertaken in two sectors: the communal and commercial. The communal sector is exclusively free range and therefore depends on biomass production. This makes the systems highly susceptible to drought. One strategy that has been devised by farmers to adapt to drought has been to overstock. However, this strategy may not be the best adaptation strategy as it leads to overgrazing and quick depletion of scarce biomass during the drought years. Climate change may increase the vulnerability of the communal cattle sector in the country mostly through changes and variability of rainfall. In the article, we determine the reliability of the rainfall in the Khurutshe area, Botswana. Vulnerability of the cattle sector to system severe failure is also determined. Lastly, the effects of climate change on return period of drought are investigated. Results indicate that the reliability index of rainfall in the Kgatleng District is 0.5. The vulnerability index of the cattle is estimated at 8000 per year. Lastly, using SimCLIM computer model climate change will shorten the return period of mild drought from 2 years to 1.6 years by 2050. These findings have serious implications on the recovery period of the cattle to withstand the next drought period.
Study of spatial and temporal distribution of frost and sliding in Iran’s mountain roads using climatic conditions matrix (Case Study; Karaj – Chalous Road)
Frost and sliding in Iran’s mountain roads cause dangerous conditions for road transportation. In this study, two goals are followed: Firstly, description of a method for a determining the likely occurrence of the critical condition of frost and sliding using the climatic conditions matrix along the Karaj- Chalous road (which is full of – traffic and mountains roads of Iran, connecting the Northern provinces to Tehran the Alborz heights). Secondly, the spatial and temporal analysis of frost using statistical analyses and GIS. One of the most important conclusions of the study is that there is a direct connection between the frost and height phenomena as by increasing the heights, the frost phenomenon occurs as soon as possible and is prolonged. From the viewpoint of spatial distribution, the studied mediate parts (that is, Karai’s kms 43 to 128) are affected by drastic frost and from the in viewpoint of temporal distribution the N5, N6 and N9 conditions (accounted as dangerous frost conditions for transportation) have been concentrated in December, January and February.
Migration, Zoba Maekel, Eritrea, Mediterranean Sea, capsized.
Ladakh: A Cultural and Geographical Marvel.
Ladakh, nestled in the Himalayas,stands as a true cultural and geographical marvel. Renowed for its breathtaking high attitude landscape -ranging from the stark beauty of barren mounts to pristine lakes like pang gong and lush river valleys-Ladakh is often called the "Land of High Passes". Its dramatic terrain, marked by rugged peaks and deep blue skies, creates one of the most visually stunning regions on Earth. The cultural fabric of Ladakh is equally fascinating. Ladakh Unique deeply influenced by both India and Tibetan traditions. Ladakh is home to vibrant indigenous communities, such as the Changpa nomads ,who sustain ancient lifestyles amidst harsh conditions. The regions monasteries, such as Hemis, Thiksey, Alchi and Shey, are not only architectural marvel but also spiritual centres that preserve rich traditions of Buddhist art ,rituals and festival. These structures reflect the regions harmonious blend of Budhism and local beliefs with influences seen in their intricate murals,geometric design and distinctive Tibetan Style woodwork. Historically, Ladakh served as a crossroads on ancient silk Route,facilitating cultural exchage between India, Tibet and Central Asia.The oral traditions, festivals, music and crafts of Ladakh further enhance its allure, making it a living museum at Himalayan heritage. In sum's Ladakh's unique interplay of geography and culture renders is not only a scenic wonder but also a repository of ancient wisdom and enduring human spirit.
Himalayas, karakoram Range, Zanskar Range, Ladakh Range, High attitude plateau, Indus River valley, Buddhist monasteries, Tibetan culture, Silk route, Nomadic Tribes, Glacies, Spiritual centre, pon gong Lake, Nubra valley.
Illegal migrants of Eritrea (Africa) and their death in the Mediterranean Sea: A case study of Zoba Maekel
The paper discussed the illegal migration from Eritrea, the place of origin to the destination places of European countries by Central Mediterranean route via Sicily as a gateway. It analyzed the total percentage of Eritrean illegal migrants to the total illegal migrants of other six countries. Percentage of men, women and minor has also been found out. The paper also analyzed the death of illegal migrants by region, origin and route and also worked out the percentage of deaths that occurred in the Mediterranean Sea. The province, Zoba Maekel was chosen for a case study to make detailed analysis of the illegal migration of students and teachers while ever might lead to close of educational institutions caused by various socio-economic, religious and political miseries. Consequently, death rate, dependency ratio exhibit high, reduced wages and dominancy of women have made them prostitutes. This research paper is the original outcome of the secondary data. Data have been gathered from BBC and CNN news agencies, International Organization of Migration (IOM), United Nation High Commissioner Refugees (UNHCR) and Ministry of Education.
Arsenicosis in rural areas of Bangladesh: Sociodemographic correlation
The aim of this study is to identify the impacts of socio-demographic variables on arsenicosis affected rural areas in Chapainawbabganj district, Bangladesh. For this, a total number of 200 respondents have been interviewed through a structured questionnaire by purposive sampling technique. In this study, logistic regression model is used to identify the risk factors on arsenicosis. In this analysis, it is indicated that respondent’s age, education, occupation, income and land ownership have high significant impacts on arsenicosis. Poor socio-economic groups are significantly higher and poor people suffer more from arsenic toxicity, more intervention activities may be useful for them.
Arsenicosis, socio-demographic variables, logistic regression analysis, Bangladesh.
Indigenous people’s perception on climate change and adaptation strategies in Jema’a local government area of Kaduna State, Nigeria
This study examines the way indigenous people in Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State perceive climate change and their adaptation strategies to climate change. The paper also asks indigenous people of the impacts of climate change on their various activities and any perceive hindrance to its adaptation. A total of 225 questionnaires were administered in five settlements within the study area, although only 200 of these questionnaires were used for the purpose of analysis. Findings revealed that indigenous people in the study area perceived that the environment, climate in particular, has been changing over the years due to diverse human activities. Findings also revealed that the threat of climate change is more on health, food supply, biodiversity lost and fuelwood availability than on businesses and instigating of disaster; and it is the poor, who depend heavily on the natural resources that are mostly affected by incidence of climate change. In adapting to climate change indigenous people cultivate different/varieties of crops which are tolerant to climate change and shortening of growing season as adaptation strategies. Result further revealed that lack of improve seeds, lack of assess to water for irrigation, lack of current knowledge of modern adaptation strategies, lack of capital, lack of awareness and knowledge of climate change scenarios are the hindering factors to the adoption of modern techniques of combating climate changes in the area.
Indigenous people’s, perception, climate change, adaptation strategies, Jema’a.
The acidifying gases emission in Cara - Severin county, Romania, in the period of 1997-2006
The harmful effects of air pollutants on human, animal and vegetation are the major reason for efforts to control their sources. During the last decades, research on acidic deposition and analysis of observational data were followed by scientific understanding of the relationships between emissions of precursor gases and deposition of acids or acidforming substances. Cara -Severin County holds many non-renewable resources which have been intensely exploited using old, pollutant technologies. The extractive, iron and steel, metallurgic, energy and construction material industry greatly contributes to the further pollution of the environment with many pollutants, including gases with acid effects on the atmosphere. The analysis done between 1997 and 2006 for measuring the dosage of gases with an acid effect indicates a state of control over the releases and, in the last final of the decade, a constant level of air quality, below the maximum allowed limit; there were no states of alarm and the concentrations of SO2, NOx and NH3 were within the maximum allowed concentrations. Still, their polluting effect exists, and this is obvious considering the acid rains that have occurred, which have had detrimental local and distant effects on agriculture, vegetation and living organisms.
air pollution, acid deposition, acid rain, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, ammonia.
Albulescu Mariana*, Turuga Livia and Chiriac Adrian