Status of Accessibility and Connectivity of Market Centres in Alipurduar District: A GIS Based Analysis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31305/rrjss.2025.v05.n01.030Keywords:
Market Centres, Accessibility and Connectivity, Alipurduar District, Composite Connectivity IndexAbstract
Market centres are very important in determining how the economy in rural and semi-urban areas develops. They are the major social and economic exchange and trade centers, which encourage interaction and integration between communities. The present study analyses the spatial distribution, accessibility and connectivity of major market centres in Alipurduar district, West Bengal, to understand the regional disparities in accessibility and market connectivity. This study used location point of the major market centres by Google Earth Pro and USGS Earth Explorer. The Analysis is done by ArcGIS Platform. According to the findings, the market centres and Krishok Bazars are clustered within the southern blocks of Alipurduar-I, Alipurduar- II and Falakata, where road and rail centers are better developed. There is weak market distribution and road connectivity in northern and northeastern parts especially Kalchini and Kumargram. The Detour Index shows more traveling movements in these regions whereas the Composite connectivity index depicts a definite core-periphery distribution, where Falakata is most connected and Madarihat-Birpara is less connected. The research shows inequitable market access to be significant limitations to a balanced development. An inclusive economic growth and sustainable rural development in the Alipurduar district should be augmented by developing Krishok Bazars, strengthening road networks, and specifically concentrating on the improvement of infrastructure in areas where access is low.
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