LOCAL AREA PLANNING

 Local area survey is defined as collection and gathering of information at the local level by
conducting primary surveys. The primary surveys are also called Local area surveys. These
are an essential component of geographic enquiry and are carried out through observation,
interviews, sketching, measurement, etc.
 In this type of survey Social & Economic studies are conducted in definitive geographical
parameters.
 Such surveys enhance our understanding about patterns of spatial distributions, their
associations and relationships both at macro as well as micro level.
 Local area surveys help in comprehending the prevailing situation and processes in totality
and at the ground level.
 It facilitates the collection of local level information that is not available through secondary
sources.
 So to summarize, Local area surveys are required so that the problem under investigation is
studied in depth as per the predefined objectives.

Usually the steps involved in a Local area survey are:

 Step 1 - Defining the Problem:

First the problem to be studied is defined precisely.

 Step 2 - Objectives:
Objectives and purposes of the survey are outlined and requirements delineated in
accordance of these, suitable tools of acquisition of data and methods of analysis are
chosen.

 Step 3 - Scope:
Scope of survey is; - the geographical area studied - time period of enquiry - (if required)
themes of studies.

 Step 4. Tools and Techniques of information collection:

Various types of tools are required to collect information. These include:
 i) Recorded and Published Data: This data is collected from government agencies,
non-governmental organizations and it provides base information about the
problem. For example, on one hand, Local Government Office can provide
information about households, persons while physical features like relief, drainage,
vegetation, land use etc. can be traced out from the topographical maps.
ii) Field Observations: These are very important & necessary inputs which help in
finding the characteristics and associations of geographic phenomena. Here
sketching and photography are helpful tools.
iii) Measurement: Some of Local area surveys demand on site measurement of Objects
and events. It involves use of appropriate equipment including state-of-art
equipment like DGPS.
iv) Interviewing: In all Local area surveys, personal interviews are needed to gather
information about social issues, problems, practical difficulties through recording
the experiences and knowledge of each individual.

 Step 5 - Compilation and Computation: Information thus collected is organized

systematically so as to make a meaningful interpretation. Then analysis of all the
information collected is undertaken to achieve the set objectives. Notes, field sketches,
photographs, case studies, etc. are first organized according to theme & subthemes of the
study. Similarly, questionnaire and schedule based information are tabulated on the same
pattern.
 Step 6 - Cartographic Applications: Maps and diagrams are used for giving visual
Impressions of variations in the phenomena.
 Step 7 - Presentations: The field study report is prepared in concise form and it contains all
the details of the procedures followed, methods, tools and techniques employed. At the end
of the report, the summary of the findings of the investigation is provided.

SURVEYING TECHNIQUES

 SELF SURVEYS - mailing questionnaires to the to be surveyed persons.

 INTERVIEWS - by asking questions to the people to be surveyed.
 DIRECT INSPECTION - when the surveyor himself inspects the situations concerned.
 OBSERVERS PARTICIPATION - when the observer himself participate in acquiring the data.