Physiographic features of Bokaro Region
The Bokaro Region is known for its varied topography and rich mineral resources, is home to Giridih, Bokaro, Ramgarh, and Dhanbad districts, each with its own set of physiographical features. Most of these districts lie in the Chotanagpur plateau region, characterized by rolling topography, undulating hills, and rich mineral deposits. The terrain of the region is extremely varied and diverse. It consists of several prominent hills, plateaus, valleys, and occasional flat plateaus. This plateau primarily consists of granite, gneiss, and schist, making it rich in mineral resources.
Giridih is a classic example, with its plateau regions rolling into the serene landscape of Parasnath Hill, the highest peak in Jharkhand.
This hill not only holds religious significance but also stands as a testament to the plateau's expanse. Intersected by several rivers and their tributaries, the region has fertile valleys suitable for agriculture. Giridih has hills, hillocks, and plateaus, with the central plateau and lower plateau being the two divisions. The cultivable area in the region are largely located in Jamua, Dhanwar, Bagodar, and Bengabad Blocks Dhanbad, often termed the 'Coal Capital of India', is rich in coal deposits, mainly found in the Damodar Valley. The Damodar River, passing through Bokaro and Dhanbad, plays a pivotal role in demarcating the valley region. Dhanbad is divided into hilly regions in the north and northwest, uplands with industries and coal mines, and cultivable flat lands south of the Damodar River. Bokaro has hilly topography with occasional flat plateaus and valleys, and it is part of the Chhotanagpur Plateau. These diverse terrains contribute to the natural beauty and resources of the region. The terrain in Ramgarh is characterized by the presence of plateaus, valleys, and some elevated areas.
Jharkhand, as a state, retains a significant portion of forest cover, and Bokaro region is no exception. The Giridih district is home to the expansive “Parasnath Forest” surrounding the revered Parasnath Hill. As part of the Chotanagpur plateau, this forest is rich in biodiversity, hosting a wide range of flora and fauna. The forest provides a habitat for various species and is an essential catchment area, helping in groundwater recharge. Ramgarh and Bokaro, too, have patches of deciduous forests, a part of the larger forest belt of the state. These forests play a critical role in maintaining the ecological balance and providing livelihoods to the local tribal population.
The Chotanagpur plateau is abundant in minerals. Dhanbad, Ramgarh and Bokaro are notably rich in coal deposits. Bokaro, apart from coal, also has other minerals, which led to the establishment of steel plants and other industries in the region.
The rivers in the region, such as the Damodar, Barakar, and Usri rivers, are important sources of water for the industries and townships that have developed along their banks. These rivers not only enhance the natural beauty of the area but also contribute to the agricultural productivity of the region. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings moderate to heavy rainfall, nourishing the agricultural lands and enhancing the greenery. The presence of these rivers and the water they provide play a crucial role in supporting the industries, townships, and agricultural activities in the region.
The climate in the region can be characterized mainly as tropical, with hot summers and relatively cool winters. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings moderate to heavy rainfall to the region, nourishing the agricultural lands and enhancing the greenery. In most part of the region, the weather is sweltering from mid-April to June, with the maximum temperature reaching 44-46 degrees Celsius on a few days. The winter season is generally pleasant, except for a few days when the night temperature almost touches the freezing point. The region has a general dryness.
Giridih, Bokaro, Ramgarh, and Dhanbad, with their unique blend of plateaus, valleys, forests, and mineral resources, represent the diverse physiography of Jharkhand. This blend not only supports diverse ecosystems but also drives the economy of the region, especially through mining and industrial activities. The forests, in particular, serve as the region's green lungs and are vital for maintaining ecological harmony.