Rajasthan: Jodhpur

Jodhpur, one of the largest district of Rajasthan state is centrally situated in Western region of the State, having geographical area of 22850 sq. Kms. It has population of 28.81 lacs as per 2001 census. The district stretches between 2600’ and 27037’ at north Latitude and between 72 55’ and 73 52’ at East Longitude. This district is situated at the height between 250-300 meters above sea level.

Jodhpur is bound by Nagaur in East, Jaisalmer in west, Bikaner in North and Barmer as well as Pali in the South. The length of the district from North to South and from East to West is 197 Km.& 208 Km. respectively.

This district comes under Arid zone of the Rajasthan state. It covers 11.60% of total area of arid zone of the state. Some of the area of Great Indian Desert THAR also comes with in the district. General slope of the terrain is towards west. Despite its arid climate, Jodhpur is blessed with a variety of flora and fauna. A survey conducted by district administration with the help of forest officials shows 162 flora and 144 fauna at Machia Safari situated only 10 kms from Jodhpur.

Extreme of heat in summer and cold in winter is the characteristic of the desert. Jodhpur is no exception. The temperature varies from 49 degree in summer to1 degree in winter. The Sandstorm (andhi) spectacle for people from other region of India. The rainy days are limited to maximum 15 in a year. The average rainfall is 302 mm.

Soil of the district is classified mainly as sandy and loamy. Bajra ( pearl millet) is the major crop in Kharif. Jodhpur has excellent ground water taste in many part of district. In Rabi Wheat, Pulse and a variety of masala like Jeera, Dhania and Red chilly are also grown. Jodhpur has a name for its red chilly, onion and garlic. It is one of the major production centre for Guar.

There is no perennial river in the district. However, there are important rivers in the district viz. Luni and Mithri rivers but their basis saline water. Main sources of irrigation besides rainwater are dug-wells tube-wells. The heighest-irrigated area in district is in Bilara Tehsil followed by Bhoplgarh and Osian tehsil.

The major and important minerals of the district are sand stones and Lime stones. Fawn & Red colours sandston of the district is very popular and found in abundance. Besides this Buliding stones, stone slabs and flagstones are mined in the district on regular basis. Minerals like quartz & clays of various colours & dolomite are also available in the district.