Q.No.1 Define Geography and describe its branches?

ANS
The word geography is a combination of two words “Geo” and “Graphy”.
Geo is a Greek word which means “The Earth” and the word “Graphy” has been
derived from the word “Graphen” which means- “Description”. So, geography means
Description of the Earth. Geography is a science that seeks to analyze the physical
environment as well as to study human influences and interactions with the
environment.
“Geography as a branch of knowledge has for its object the description
of
the surface of the Earth as evidence of man’s relationship with the Earth’s surface
the home of man.”
Branches of Geography: -
There are two main branches of Geography are following:
1. Human Geography.
2. Physical Geography.

1-Human Geography:
Human Geography is the branch of social science that
deals with the study of people and their communities, cultures, economies, and
interactions with the environment by studying their relations with and across space
and place. This is the main branch at Geography and it mainly covers studies of the
human race. This normally involves their backgrounds, how they interact and their
perceptions about various ideologies. Human geography consists of a number of sub
disciplinary fields that focus on different elements of human activity and organization.
One of them is commercial Geography.
Commercial geography is a sub-discipline that uses a geographical approach to
study the economy. Commercial geographers examine the distribution of production
and distribution of goods, the distribution of wealth, and the spatial structure of
economic conditions. It describes and explain the absolute and relative location of
economic activities, and the flows of information, raw materials, goods, and people
that connect otherwise separate local, regional, and national economies.
There are sub-branches of Human geography:
 Cultural Geography
  Economic Geography
 Health Geography
 Historical Geography
 Political Geography
 Population Geography
 Rural Geography
 Social Geography
 Transport Geography
 Urban Geography
Cultural geography studies the relationship between different cultures and place.
Geographers will look at how cultures are distributed over space and how different
cultures express their practices on the Earth’s landscape.
Economic Geography: Geographers under this branch normally study the manner
in which products are usually produced and consequently distributed in their
respective niche markets.
In addition to this, they also study the way in which wealth is distributed in various
regions over the planet. In general, the structures which control and influence the
conditions of the economy are usually dissected microscopically here.
Health Geography looks at the distribution and access to healthcare as well as the
overall health of populations.
Historical Geography looks at how a place and the people that live there have
changed over time.
Political Geography the branch of geography that deals with the boundaries,
divisions, and possessions of countries.
Population Geography In most cases, scholars usually equate population
geography to demography even though this is usually not the case. This is mainly
owing to the reason that population geography is deeper than the study of the
patterns of a group of people with regards to birth, marriage & death as is the case
with demography.
Rural Geography The study of people, places, and landscapes in rural areas and
the processes and practices through which rurality is produced and contested.
Social Geography is interested in the relationships between society and space, and
is most closely related to social theory in general and sociology in particular, dealing
with the relation of social phenomena and its spatial components. Though the term
itself has a tradition of more than 100 years, there is no consensus on its explicit
content.
Transport Geography Geographers who are involved in this branch of geography
are usually involved in the research of the available networks for transportation. This
includes both the public ones as well as private ones.
Once the networks have been studied, ways in which to maximize their use in the
movement of people and products can be explored.
Urban Geography With the development of urban cities worldwide, the branch of
urban geography came into play since it enables researchers to study these trends
much more effectively. In addition to this, these geographers are able to investigate
potential locations that are suitable for development for the tiniest of villages to
sprout into the desired huge cities.
2-Physical Geography:
Physical Geography (also known as geosystems or
physiographic) is one of the two major sub-fields of Geography. Physical geography
is that branch of natural sciences which deals with the study of processes and
patterns in the natural environment like the atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere and
geosphere as opposed to the cultural or built environment.
Geomorphology is the study of the physical features of the surface of the earth and
their relation to its geological structures.
Climatology is the study of climate and how it changes over time. This science
helps people better understand the atmospheric conditions that cause weather
patterns and temperature changes over time.
Hydrology Hydro" comes from the Greek word form water. Hydrology is the study of
water and hydrologists are scientists who study water. Water is one of our most
precious natural resources. Without it, there would be no life on earth. Hydrology has
evolved as a science in response to the need to understand the complex water
system of the earth and help solve water problems. This hydrology primer gives you
information about water on earth and humans' involvement and use of water.
Biogeography the study of the geographic distribution of plants , animals, and other
forms of life. It is concerned not only with habitation patterns but also with the factors
responsible for variations in distribution.

Q.No.2 What is scope of economics and commercial geography? Explain

importance of economics and commercial geography and its
approaches?
ANS
Scope of economics and commercial geography
As the purpose and scope of Economic and Commercial Geography is to study the
factors responsible for production and distribution for production and distribution of
various commodities, to study the trend of consumption, together with the problems
involved. Thus, we can say that Economics and Commercial Geography is mainly
concerned with the study of agriculture, minerals, industrial resources and also
means of transportation and trade centers of the world. So more detailed
explanation, about the factors of production and distribution are as follows:
1. Study of Agricultural Resources:
For the study of Economic and Commercial Geography it is essential to study the
causes to produce various agricultural products. It is also identified which factors
are responsible for the growth of agricultural products and also the factors that are
responsible for the commerce and trade of the agricultural products.
2.Study of Minerals Resources:
The type and nature of mineral resources are available in the world for study.
Minerals are also an important factor of trade and commerce, because every country
in the world is not self-sufficient in mineral resources, in Economics and Commercial
geography, we study about the production and distribution of different minerals found
in the world.
3. Study of Industrial Resources:
Agricultural and mineral resources are responsible for the growth and development
of industrial sector because agricultural and minerals are used as an input in
industries. So, industrial progress cannot be studied without the study of other
factors. Our agricultural produce plays an important role in the industrial sector. A
country with limited agricultural and mineral resources cannot be progressed in the
industrial sector.
4. Study of Means of Transportation:
Transportation plays an important role for the progress of agricultural, minerals and
industrial resources. An industrial and agricultural produce cannot be brought if
means of transportation are not efficient. So, without the study of means of
transportation study of other factors is not possible.
5. Study of Traders:
Trade centers also play an important role for the development of trade and
commerce of certain areas. All trade activities are carried through these centers so,
without the studies of trade centers commerce and trade of the other areas cannot
be promoted.
IMPORTANCE OF ECONOMIC AND COMMERCIAL GEOGRAPHY
Economic and Commercial Geography is very important now a day for students and
also very important subject for every person because its helps in various fields of life.
The study of economic and commercial geography plays an important role for
economist. It can help the economist while making economic planning. Through the
study of economic and commercial geography economist can find out the resources
available in a country. The study of economic and commercial geography is also
helpful for industrialist. It can help the industrialist to know about the industrial
processes and to learn know the raw material. So, an industrial can easily invest his
capital after studying the economic and commercial geography.
Agriculturalist can also get maximum advantage after the complete study of
economic and commercial geography. When he knows about the quality of seeds
and new methods and techniques so, he can get maximum output. A trader can
trade his goods and services in such a way if he has complete knowledge about the
market, its size location and many others factors.
Thus, a businessman can make his business more efficient after the study of
economic and commercial geography. The study of economic and commercial
geography is also helpful for the students. The study of economic and commercial
geography can guide the people that how can they utilize the available resources
and how they improve their standard of living. The study of economic and
commercial geography can guide the ruling class, how the best use of natural
resources can be made. So, the challenges of poverty, hunger and unemployment
can be handled.
APPROACHES TO COMMERCIAL GEOGRAPHY
As economic geography is a very wide discipline, the economic geographers using
many different methodologies in the study of economic phenomenon in the world?
There are many approaches in economic approaches i.e Traditional approaches,
philosophic approaches and modern approaches.
Here we discuss traditional approach of economic geography.
1. Traditional Approach:
Traditional approaches are the approaches which are common in geography and
frequently used in Commercial geography. These are:
2. Regional Approach:
In a Commercial geography, the term ‘region’ is very popular. It examines the
economic conditions of a particular region i.e. climatic region, a natural region, an
industrial region, an agricultural region, an administrative region or political region.
So, several geographers have chosen this region approach in economic geography
because it gives better knowledge of different parts of system, their relationship to
each other and to the system as a whole.

3. Commodity Approach:
The commodity approach describes the distribution pattern of a commodity, or an
industry (cotton textile industry) or a human occupation (fishing). The commodity
approach is very popular. It analyzes the division and sequence of their
development.
4. Principles Approach:
In every sphere of human activity certain rules and principles hold well, they provide
the foundation upon which the different structures based. Economic regions are
based on certain fundamental principles. In the case of extraction of minerals, or the
localization of industries or the exchange of commodities different principles based.
Q.No.3 Define world economic geography. Explain the major resources
and their categorization?
ANS
World economic geography refers to the study of the distribution and spatial
organization of economic activities and resources across the globe. It examines how
various factors such as natural resources, technology, infrastructure, markets, and
human capital influence the economic development and patterns of different regions
and countries.
RESOURCE AND THEIR CATEGORIZATION
A resource is a source or supply from which benefit is produced. Resources are
materials, cash, services, staff or other assets that are transformed to produce
benefit. Benefits of resource utilization may include increased wealth, satisfaction of
needs or wants, proper functioning of a system. Resources can be broadly classified
on basis upon their availability they are renewable and non-renewable resources.
Resources can also be classified as actual and potential on the basis of level of
development and use, on the basis of origin they can be classified as biotic and
abiotic. Resources have three main characteristics; utility, limited
availability and have potential for consumption.
1. Economic Resources:
Economic resources are the factors used in producing
goods or providing services. They are inputs that are used to create things or help us
to provide services. Economies itself has been defined as the study of how society
manages its scarce resources. Economic resources can be divided into human
resources such as labor and non-human resources include land and capital goods.
Land includes all natural resources that are viewed as both the site of production and
the source of 28 raw materials. Labor or human resources consist of human effort
that produces the products and in return wages are paid to the labor. Capital
consists of human made goods or means of production that are used in the
production of goods and services, paid in interest.
Land or Natural Resources:
Natural resources are the resources which are
derived from the environment. Many natural resources are compulsory for human
beings to survive while some resources are not necessary, they are used for
satisfying human desire. Natural resources may be classified in different ways.
 On the Basis of Origin Resources can be classified on the basis of origin
I.e., Abiotic resources and biotic resources.
Abiotic resources are the resources that comprise non-living things e.g., land,
water, air and minerals etc.
Biotic resources are the resources that are obtained from the biosphere. Forests
and their products, birds and their products, fish and other marine organisms are
important examples.
 On the Basis of Stage of Development Resources are also categorized
based on the stage of development.
Potential Resources are the resources whose entire quantity may not be known
and these are not being used at present. These resources could be used in future.
The level of technology we have at present may not be good or advanced enough to
easily utilize these resources.
Actual Resources are those resources that have been surveyed, their quantity and
quality has been determined, and they are currently being used.
 On the Basis of Renewability: Natural resources can be categorized on the
basis of renewability.
Non-Renewable Resources are those resources whose formation is very slow.
They are formed over long geological periods and do not naturally form in the
environment. Minerals and fossil fuels are the examples.
Renewable Resources are the resources that cannot be finished. They are
available continuously and their quantity cannot be affected by human consumption.
Sunlight, water air and wind are the examples.
 On the Basis of Distribution On the basis of distribution natural resources
can be further classified.
Ubiquitous Resources are formed everywhere e.g., air, light and water etc.
Localized Resources which are formed only in certain parts of the world e.g.,
copper, iron etc.
2.Labor or Human resources:
Human beings provide their labor work to the
organization in order to get their benefit considered as human resources. Skills,
energies, talents, abilities and knowledge used by the labor for the production of
goods and services are also including in the human resources. Labor provides their
services with best of their knowledge and abilities in order to get maximum output
and in return they get their reward in the form of wages. Human resources are
essential for economic development and can be further divided into the following
categories:
 Skilled labor These are individuals who possess specialized knowledge,
training and expertise in specific fields, such as doctors, engineers, scientists,
and IT professionals.
 Unskilled Labor This category comprises workers who perform manual or
routine tasks that require minimal training or education, such as agricultural
workers, construction laborers and factory workers.
 Entrepreneurial Skills These are individuals who possess innovative ideas,
leadership qualities, and business acumen, driving economic growth through
the establishment and management of enterprises.
3.Capital Resources:
Capital resources are the resources that are already produced
durable goods and further used for production of goods and services. Examples of
capital include buildings, machinery, railways, roads and ships. However, the capital
resources are not fully consumed, they may be depreciating in the production
process. They can be further categorized as:
 Physical capital: This includes tangible assets such as machinery,
equipment, buildings, infrastructure, and transportation networks.
  Financial capital: It encompasses the monetary resources available for
investment and financing economic activities, including savings, investments,
stocks, bonds, and loans.
 Technological capital: This includes knowledge, patents, research and
development, and technological advancements that contribute to productivity
and innovation.
4. Tangible or Intangible Resources:
 Tangible Resources are those recourses which have actual physical
existence such as equipment.
 Intangible Resources such as corporate images, brand and patent exist in
abstraction.
5.Mineral Resources:
Minerals provide the material source that is used in the
industries for the production of various commodities. A mineral is a pure inorganic
substance that occurs naturally in the earth’s crust. Minerals are valuable natural
resources being finite and non-renewable. A demand for minerals is increasing day
by day as the population increases and the consumption demands of individual
increase.
Following are the types of mineral resources.
 Iron: Iron is a mineral that our bodies need for many functions. For example,
iron is part of hemoglobin, a protein which carries oxygen from our lungs
throughout our bodies. It helps our muscles store and use oxygen. Iron is
also part of many other proteins.
 Copper: It is one of the most important and widely used metals of modern
society. Pure copper is soft and malleable. Its surface has a reddish-orange
color. It is used as a conductor of heat and electricity. The largest use of
copper is in the electrical industry where copper wires and cables are
produced. Copper reserves are found in South Central Africa, China, Western
USA, Kazakhstan and Canada.
 Gold: Gold is the soft, dense and malleable mineral with a bright yellow color.
It is one of the least reactive chemical elements. It is highly prized by people
because of its attractive color and its many special properties. In its purest
form, it is a bright, slightly reddish yellow, dense, soft, malleable and ductile
metal. Gold is a good conductor of heat and electricity. As a precious metal
gold has been used for coinage, jewelry, and other arts throughout recorded
 history. Trace amount of gold are found almost everywhere, but large
deposits are found in only a few locations. Gold producing countries are
South Africa, Canada, Russia, USA, Australia and India.
 Silver: Silver is one of the so-called precious metals because of its brilliant
white color. Silver used in the manufacturing of coins, ornaments and jewelry.
Unlike gold, silver is present in many naturally occurring materials. Silver is
often found in conjunction with these or alloyed with other metals such as
gold, it usually must be further extracted through amalgamation or
electrolysis. Silver is found generally in lead ores, copper ores and cobalt
ores and is also frequently associated with gold in nature. Silver is found in
Mexico, USA, Canada and Peru.
 Coal: Coal is a brownish-black sedimentary rock that contains elements of
carbon. Coal is composed primarily of carbon, along with variable quantities
of other elements such as hydrogen, sulfur, oxygen, and nitrogen. Coal also
contains same percentage of solid, liquid and gaseous hydrocarbons. This
involves biological and geological processes that take place over time. It is
referred as a fossil fuel. Coal producing countries are China, Australia,
Russia, South Africa and Germany.
 Oil / Petroleum: Oil is a clear, colorless & odorless liquid. Mineral oil is a
liquid by producing of refining crude oil to make gasoline and other petroleum
products. Oils have a high carbon and hydrogen content and are usually
flammable and surface active. They are used for food fuel, medical purposes,
lubrication, and the manufacture of many types of paints, plastics, and other
materials. Oil producing countries are Canada, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, United Arab
Emirates, and Russia etc.
6. Agricultural Resources:
 Wheat: Wheat is a food crop. It is the crop of temperate region. It is the most
widely grown crops in the world and provides 20% of the daily proteins and
also food calories. Wheat is grown on more land area than any other food
crop. After rice, wheat is the second most important food crops in the
developing world. Today, wheat is grown on more land area than any other
commercial crop. Wheat is the primary food staple in North Africa and the
Middle East, and is growing in Asia. All countries share the need to increase
wheat yield, as well as to improve input use efficiency in order to increase the
wheat production.
  Rice: It is the crop of tropical region. It is the plant of water. It is the most
widely consumed staple food for a large part of the world's human population,
especially in Asia. Cultivation of Rice is originated is China over 4000 years
ago. Rice is an essential agricultural product in many countries. In poor and
developing countries, rice is used as a staple commodity due to its low costs
and high caloric value. Rice was first cultivated commercially in the United
States in South Carolina during the 17th century. Rice consumption is
increasing day by day in many countries due to growth in population and
people’s demand.
 Cotton: Cotton is a soft, fluffy staple fiber that grows in a protective case,
around the seeds of the cotton plants. The fiber is almost pure cellulose.
Under natural conditions, the cotton bolls will increase the dispersal of the
seeds. Successful cultivation of cotton requires a long period, plenty of
sunshine, and a moderate rainfall. China is the world's largest producer of
cotton, but most of this is consumed domestically. Most important cotton-
growing countries are the USA, China, India, Pakistan and Australia.
 Sugarcane: Sugarcane is a crop that is grown in many countries. It is mainly
grown for sugar production. Most of the World’s sugarcane is grown in
subtropical and tropical areas. The world demand for sugar is the primary
driver of sugarcane agriculture. Sugarcane is also used in industries for the
production of essential items like chip board, paper, chemicals, plastics,
paints, synthetic fiber, insecticides and detergents. Sugarcane producing
countries are Brazil, China, India, Thailand, Pakistan and Mexico.
 Maize: Maize is cereal plant of the grass family and it is edible grain. Maize
has become a staple food in many parts of the world, with total production
surpassing that of wheat or rice. Maize was first domesticated by native
peoples in Mexico about 10,000 years ago. The domesticated crop originated
in the Americans and is one the most widely distributed of the world’s food
crops. However, not all of this maize is consumed directly by humans. Some
of the maize production is used for corn ethanol, animal feed and other maize
products, such as corn starch and corn syrup. Crops are used as livestock
feed, as human food, as biofuel and as raw material in industry. The Maize
producing countries are USA, China, Brazil, India, Argentina etc.
Q.No.4 Define world trade routes and describe its effects on the world
major economics?
ANS
 A trade route is a logistical network identified as a series of pathways and
stoppages used for the commercial transport of cargo. The term can also be used to
refer to trade over bodies of water. Allowing goods to reach distant markets, a single
trade route contains long distance arteries, which may further be connected to
smaller networks of commercial and noncommercial transportation routes. Among
notable trade routes was the Amber Road, which served as a dependable network
for long-distance trade. Maritime trade along the spice route became prominent
during the Middle Ages, when nations resorted to military means for control of this
influential route. During the Middle Ages, organizations such as the Hanseatic
League, aimed at protecting interests of the merchants and trade became
increasingly prominent.

In modern times, commercial activity shifted from the major trade routes of the old
world to newer routes between modern nation-states. This activity was sometimes
carried out without traditional protection of trade and under international free-
trade agreements, which allowed commercial goods to cross borders with relaxed
restrictions. Innovative transportation of modern times includes pipeline
transport and the relatively well-known trade involving rail routes, automobiles,
and cargo airlines.

1.Land Routes:

Land routes are the routes through which trade activities among
different parts of country exist through land roads. Following are the land routes that
are given below:

 Silk Road: The Silk Road was a network of trade routes, which linked the
regions of the ancient world in commerce and it also links the ancient
civilization of China and the Roman Empire. While many different kinds of
merchandise traveled along the Silk Road, the name comes from the
popularity of Chinese silk with the West especially with Rome. Silk was
traded from China to the Roman Empire which starts in the first century in
exchange for wool, silver and gold coming from Europe. The greatest value of
the Silk Road was the exchange of culture.
 Trans-Saharan Route: The Trans-Saharan route from North Africa to West
Africa was made up of number of routes, providing a crisscross of trading
links across the desert. The Sahara once had a very different environment.
Thousands of camels would carry goods across the Sahara. This trade route
was instrumental in spread of Islam.
  Amber Road: Amber has been traded since 3000 BCE. Romans developed
Amber Road linking the Baltic with the rest of Europe. They valued stones for
both decorative and medicinal purposes. Large deposits of Amber are found
under the Baltic Sea. Today traces of the old Amber Road can be found in
Poland, where one of the major routes is known as the “Amber Highway”.
 Grand Trunk Road: The grand trunk road is one of Asian’s great historical
roads and a major route connecting much of the Indian subcontinent. It runs
through parts of Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Afghanistan. The objective
of this route is to facilitate trade activities. It was built by Sher shah Suri. The
road continues to Pakistan near Peshawar through Khyber Pass from
Afghanistan.

2. Sea Routes:
A sea route is a regularly used route for vessels on oceans and large
lakes to carry the trade activities among different countries of the world. Following
are the sea routes of the world:
 Mediterranean Suez Asiatic Route: It links Europe to the Far East. This
route transport goods and services from the Middle East and the raw material
from the Asian countries. Due to wars in the Middle East the trade activities
through this route are disturbed especially through Suez Canal.
 North Atlantic Route North Atlantic Route lies in the area which is
considered the busiest in the world. It links Europe with the North America.
On both sides of North Atlantic are areas of very dense rich population and
with various industrial activities. It has some of the world’s largest sea and
one of the European sides. The major ports of this route include Rotterdam,
Amsterdam, London and Lisbon.
 West-Indies Route/Panama Route: It is through Panama Canal. It has
become the great way to the pacific. It has facilities of the trade activities like
minerals, food stuffs and manufactured goods between the East west coastal
areas of USA. It is also an important trade route for China, Japan and south-
East Asian countries with Western Europe.
 The Rhine Water Way: The Rhine is Europe’s most important water way. It
flows through Switzerland and Germany. The Rhine River is linked to Rhone
River and the Mediterranean by the Rhone River canal. It passes through the
most important industrialized areas in the world. The trade activities on the
 river Rhine include machinery, steel pipes, diesel engines, watches, food
stuffs, oil, and coal and iron ore.
3.MODERN ROUTES:
With the development of means of transport and free trade
agreements, modern routes are introduced. Newer means of transport led to the
establishment of new routes, and countries opened up borders to allow trade
activities of goods as per prevailing free trade agreement. Some trading routes were
reopened during the modern times.
Wagon Way Route: Wagon way consists of the horses, equipment and tracks used
for hauling wagons. The advantage of using wagon way was that far bigger loads
could be transported with the same power. The settlers in the U.S used this wagon
train for westward emigration during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Railway Route: Through this route trade are benefited as the workers and the lower
classes had the ability to travel to other towns frequently. The British constructed a
vast railway network in India but it was considered to serve a strategic purpose in
addition to the commercial purpose. These remain the best means of transporting
large volumes of commodities such as coal grain, chemicals and ore over long
distances.
Air Routes: Air transport has become an essential part of modern world. People
have come to use air transport both for long and middle distances. This mode of
transportation links national, international and global economies that are beneficial to
many other industries. Air transport particularly favors light, expensive and small
products. The effects of world trade routes on major economics are significant and
wide ranging. Here are some key impacts:
1.Economic Growth:
World trade routes contribute to economic growth by enabling
countries to access larger markets and a more diverse range of goods and services.
Increased trade leads to higher production levels, job creation, and increased
income levels.
2.Specialization and Comparative Advantage:
Trade routes encourage countries to specialize in the
production of goods and services in which they have a comparative advantage. This
specialization allows countries to focus on their strength, leading to higher efficiency
and productivity, which in turn, boosts economic growth.
3.Global Supply Chains:
 Trade routes are instrumental in the creation and operation
of global supply chains. Different countries participate in these chains by contributing
different stages of production, from raw materials extraction to manufacturing and
distribution.

4.Foreign Direct Investment (FDI):

Trade routes play a crucial role in attracting foreign direct
investment. Investors seek opportunities in countries with well-connected trade
routes as it allows for easy access to markets, resources, and infrastructure. FDI
brings capital, technology, and expertise stimulating economic growth and
development.
5.Cultural Exchange:
Trade routes facilitate cultural exchange between nations. As
goods, services, and people move across borders they bring with them cultural
influences, ideas and innovations. This cultural exchange enriches societies and
promotes understanding among different nations.
Geopolitical Relations:
The existence of trade routes affects geopolitical relations
between countries. Trade relationships can foster cooperation, peace, and stability
as countries become interdependent on each other’s economic success. However,
trade disputes and protectionist measures can strain relationships and lead to
tensions.
7.Income Inequality:
While trade routes can contribute to overall economic growth,
they can also impact income inequality within countries. Certain industries or regions
may benefit more from trade, while others may face challenges and job losses.
8.Globalization and Interconnectedness:
Trade routes are a driving force behind globalization,
connecting economies and societies worldwide. The increasing interconnectedness
leads to a greater interdependence among countries and enables the exchange of
ideas, technologies and innovations.
9.Environmental Impact:
World trade routes have environmental implications due to
increased transportation and the carbon footprint associated with long-distance
trade. It is important for countries to promote sustainable trade practices are reduce
the environmental impact of global supply chains.
Q.No.5 What do you mean about geographical location of Pakistan?
Explain the physical features and climate of different regions of
Pakistan?
ANS
Pakistan is located in the continent of Asia bordered by India to the east,
Afghanistan and Iran to the west, China to the north and the Arabian Sea to the
south. The Areas wise Pakistan is 36th largest nation in the world with a total area of
796096 km. Pakistan became an independent state in 1947 after gaining its
sovereignty from the United Kingdom. Pakistan is a profound blend of landscapes
varying from plains to deserts, forests, mountains, and plateaus. It is largely a dry
area drained by large streams. It is poor in metallic minerals, but rich in several non-
metallic minerals. It is an agricultural country, but it is trying to acquire modern
technology. It extends from 230 35’ N to 370 05’ N (latitude). Therefore, Pakistan
records high temperatures in summer, and winters are not very severe. Pakistan
extends from 600 57’ to 770 50’ E (Longitude). Longitudinal extension is not much;
therefore, it is possible to have a one standard time for the whole country.
PHYSICAL FEATURES OF PAKISTAN
The major part of our country consists of lofty mountains on the north and west, it
has the world fertile alluvial plain which is drained by the river Indus and its
tributaries. It has plateaus and few deserts also and thus Pakistan can be divided
into a number of physical regions which are given below:
1.The North Eastern Mountains:
The highest mountain of the world known as “The Himalayas and Karakorum
comprising of a series of ranges which is situated in the north-east of our country.
The Himalayas stretches like a bow in the north of Indo-Pak sub-continent having a
length of about 1500km. The part of this mountain which came into our share,
consists of four parallel ranges. With beautiful valleys. The slope of these goes
decreasing from the north to south. Thus, according to their altitudes, these ranges
can be sub-divided as:
 The Siwalik Range: These are line of low altitude hills, situated adjacent to
plain areas of Hazera district in KPK and Attock, Rawalpindi, Jhelum, Gujrat
and Sialkot districts in Punjab. Here these hills have a height of between
3000 and 4000 feet from sea level.
 The Pir Panjal Range: Pir Panjal range is one of the famous ranges that lie
in these areas, it has an average altitude of 14000 to 15000 feet; most of the
peaks remain snow covered during winter.
  The Central or Great Himalayas: The average height of these ranges is
20,000 feet. These mountains lie in between the Pir Panjal range and
Karakoram Range and most of the peak remains snow covered throughout
the year. The highest peak of this range known as Nanga Parbat lies in
Kashmir with 26,660 feet height.
 The Karakoram Range: The famous Karakorum Range lies to the north of
central Himalayas in northern Kashmir and Gilgit area. These ranges have an
average height of more than 20,000 above sea level. The peaks having a
high altitude remain snow covered throughout the year. The north eastern
mountains of our country are quite high and it is difficult to cross them. The
highest-Peak of these ranges is K-2 with 2,825/feet height which is the 2nd
highest peak of the world offer Mount Everest.
2.The North Western Mountains:
The north western ranges of our country are also known as western branches of the
Himalayas Mountains. These mountains consist of several parallel ranges and are
lower in altitude than the north eastern mountains. As most of these ranges lie
outside the course of summer monsoons coming from Arabian Sea, and so there the
rainfall is low and these are almost baren of natural vegetation. These mountains act
as a boundary between Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan. So, the north western
mountains can be sub-divided into the following divisions:
 The Hindu-Kush: Between the Knot Pamir and Kabul River lies the Hindu
Kush range. The average height of this range is between 10,000 to 16,000
feet above sea level. Most of the mountain remains snow-covered during
winter months. The highest Peak is Tirchmir with 25,230 feet height.
 Koh-Sufaid: South of the Kabul River up to Khurram pass lies the Koh-
Sufaid range which runs east and west. These mountains have an average
height of 12,000 feet are often covered with snow in winter.
 Waziristan Hills: Between the Khurram and the Gomal rivers lies the
Waziristan hills area. These hills have low altitude. The Tochi River joins the
Kurram River from the west in North Waziristan and Gomal River coming
from Afghanistan joins Indus near Dera Ismail khan.
 The Sulaiman Mountain: In the south of the Gomal River lays the Sulaiman
Mountain. Its highest peak is known as Takht-i-sulaiman, whose height is
11,440 ft above sea level.
  The Kirthar Hills: In the west of lower Indus plain lies a hilly area known as
“The Kirthar hills”. These hills are not high enough, their average height being
about 7000 feet. Hab river drains from these ranges.
3. The Indus Plain:
River Indus is the largest river of our country. This river after originating from the
northern slopes of Kailash Range in Tibet (China) passing through the Himalayas
and enters in Pakistan’s territory near Gilgit. In the upper region a number of streams
join in it, but at the later stage, some of its western and eastern tributaries make it
huger and vast in volume and speed. All the plain areas of our country have existed
by the sediments brought by river Indus and its tributaries, the whole of the Indus
plain can be sub-divided into two main parts:
 The Upper Indus Plain: From the point of junction of eastern tributaries of
river Indus is known as the upper Indus plain. It includes most of the areas of
Punjab province. The upper Indus plain has a height from 600 feet to 1,000
feet. The north eastern part is comparatively higher. The five big rivers of
Punjab drain this plain. The land which lies between the two rivers is known
as “Doab”. Thus, the area of Punjab plain can be divided into Bari Doab, The
Rachna Doab, The chaj Doab and the Sindh Sagar Doab. Although the north
eastern areas of Upper Indus plain receive enough amount of rainfall, but
here the average annual rainfall is less than 20 inches, which is insufficient for
the agricultural activities, so irrigates is practical number of crops such as
wheat, rice, cotton, maize and pulses are cultivated in these areas.
 The Lower Indus Plain: The lower Indus plain differs from the upper Indus
plain because of its structure. The lower Indus plain has been formed by the
changing course of a single great river and the deposits are of a
comparatively recent origin. The lower Indus plain situated between the left
bank of the Indus River and Thar Desert. It is a level alluvial plain. It is more
productive, but rainfall is scanty and agricultural activities cannot be
performed on western side of Indus are comparatively less fertile and most of
the areas lying north west of Indus River have been suffering from the disease
of water logging and salinity.
4. Plateaus:
Plateaus includes
 The salt range: The area of salt range begins in the east near the Jhelum
and runs south-west to the north of the river Jhelum for some distance before
 turning North West to cross the Indus near kala Bagh. Large quantities of rock
salt and minerals like gypsum and coal are found in this range.
 Potwar plateau: North of salt range the area of Rawalpindi, Jhelum and
Mianwali districts are known as Potwar Plateau. These areas have also an
uneven surface. The Haro and Soan rivers pass across the potwar plateau.
Due to scanty of rainfall and uneven surface these areas are not suitable for
agricultural activities, but some of the minerals of our country such as mineral
oil, coal, iron, ore, lime-stone etc. are found from the potwar plateau.
 The Baluchistan Plateau: This plateau lies to the west of the sulaiman and
Kirthar Mountains. Like potwar plateau, the dry hills run across the plateau
from the north east to the south west. The mountains in the north-east are
higher than those in the south and contain valuable deposit of coal, iron,
chromite and other minerals. These areas receive a small amount of rainfall
and there is scarcity of water. So due to shortage of water and uneven
surface these are not suitable for cultivation.
5. The Desert Areas:
Deserts, in Pakistan, make up a large part of the country’s geography, especially in
the central and south-eastern regions. These areas receive very little rain fall and
have large tracts of barren wastelands, with formation of sand dunes rising sometime
to 150 m above ground level. The desert areas also support wildlife including desert
gazelles, bustards, jackals, foxes, wild cats, lizards and snakes etc. The major
deserts are:
 Thar Desert: The Thar Desert spans an area of 175,000 square kilometers
and covers large areas of Pakistan and India. It is the largest desert of
Pakistan and the only subtropical desert of Asia. It is the 16th largest desert
on the planet and the third largest in Asia. It has also spread into India. The
Thar Desert, also known as the Great Indian Desert, is a large, arid region in
the northwestern part of the Indian subcontinent that forms a natural boundary
between India and Pakistan. It is the world's 16th largest desert, and the
world's 9th largest subtropical desert. Rainfall in the area is very low and the
climate is harsh with temperatures ranging from near freezing up to 50°C.
 Cholistan Desert: It covers an area of about 16,000 square km and extends
into the Thar Desert of India. The south border area of Bahawalpur division is
known as Cholistan. The Cholistan Desert is locally known as "Rohi 'and
covers the area of Bahawalpur, Punjab. It adjoins the Thar Desert, extending
 over to Sindh and into India. Cholistan desert hosts an annual Jeep rally,
known as Cholistan Desert Jeep Rally which is the biggest.
 Thal Desert: The Thal deserts situated in Punjab, Pakistan. It is located
between the Jhelum and Sindh rivers near the Potohar Plateau. The total
length from north to south is 190 miles and a maximum breadth is 70 miles
(110 km) and minimum breadth is 20 miles. The desert covers the districts of
Bhakkar, Khushab, Mianwali, Muzaffargarh as well as Jhang, from the left
bank of the river Jhelum.

 Kharan Desert: This is also called the Sandy Desert. It is located in the
Province of Balochistan. It covers an area of about 48,051 sq. km. It is
basically covered with sand dunes and scrub vegetation. The Kharan Desert
is a sandy and mountainous desert situated in Balochistan Province in south-
western Pakistan. This desert was the site of Pakistan's second nuclear
test, Chagai-II, which was carried out on 30 May 1998.

CLIMATE OF PAKISTAN
The atmospheric conditions at any place for a short time is known as weather. “The
generalized picture of weather is called climate”, thus to have a general picture of the
atmospheric conditions of a place, the average conditions of weather are obtained.
Temperature, pressure, wind rainfall, etc., are the composite parts or elements of
climate. The elements depend upon a number of factors. Climate differs from place
to place and from time to time according to the changing factors. Pakistan enjoys
arid and semi-arid conditions with hot summer and cold winter. So, while studying
the climate of Pakistan it has been seen that a great difference is found in climatic
conditions of various areas of our country. Our country has three main seasons:
 Winter season: (from November to February)
 Summer season: (from March to June)
 Rainy season: (from July to October)
Climatic Regions:
In Pakistan humidity is mostly low and the air is dry for the greater part of the year.
Only in coastal area there is enough amount of humidity throughout the year.
Pakistan can be divided into the following climatic regions:
 Sub-tropical continental highland type: This region includes the mountains
in the north and west of the Indus plain. In this region winters are cold and
lengthy and often the temperature goes below the freezing point; and the
 higher peaks remain snow-covered throughout the year. But here summer
remains short, cool and temperate. This region receives highest rainfall.
 Sub-tropical continental plateau type: This region includes the north
western part of Baluchistan province. Here winters are cold, and in summer
temperature goes higher enough and often dust storms prevail. Although it
has higher altitude, but due to poor rainfall, these have turned into arid desert.
In these areas there is scarcity of rain water, but in some of the places of
these areas have the lowest rainfall.
 Sub-tropical continental low land type: This region includes the interior
areas of Punjab and Sindh province. It has generally arid hot climate. Here
summer remains long and hot. But winters are cool and short. It has the
hottest places of the country. The rainy season begins in the middle of the
summer months. But the western part of this plain is drier than the eastern
due to very poor rainfall.
 Sub-tropical coastal areas type: This region includes the coastal strip
around Karachi and Makran coast in Baluchistan. Here due to the influence of
the sea, the temperature remains moderate. But due to proximity of the sea, a
large amount of humidity remains in the atmosphere.
Temperature:
From keeping in view temperature can be divided into the following divisions:
 The north east and north western mountainous region: North east and
north western mountainous areas of our country are higher enough from the
sea level. Here due to a higher altitude the winters are cold and longer, and
during winter months temperature often goes down below freezing point, there
is enough snow falls, and the higher peaks remain covered with snow. But
summers remain cool and temperate.
 The plain areas of Punjab and Sindh Provinces: The plain areas of Punjab
and Sindh are situated in the south of the mountainous region. Thus, due to
low altitude and being far away from the ocean, these areas have a typically
continental type of climate. The temperature reaches the maximum during
summer months and the summer is hot and lengthy. So, after dry hot weather,
thunderstorms or dust storms appear.
 Southern coastal areas: These areas are situated in the south of the lower
Indus plain, here due to nearness of sea; the temperature does not reach up
to extreme, the atmospheric conditions remain humid, and the heat in the
summer months is oppressive.
 Baluchistan plateau: The Baluchistan plateau is a large, arid plateau that
covers much of the southern half of Pakistan. The plateau is bordered by the
Hindu Kush mountains to the north and the Arabian Sea to the south. Here
the summer temperature is somewhat higher and winter temperature is also
low.