Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Urban centers are not homogenous entities; they perform diverse functions that contribute to the regional economy and social structure. Understanding these functions is crucial for regional planning and development. Several scholars have attempted to classify towns based on their dominant activities. One such attempt is Nelson’s method of functional classification of towns, proposed by Paula Nelson in 1959. This method, developed primarily based on studies in the United States, categorizes towns based on the economic activities that drive their existence and growth, moving beyond simple population size as a defining characteristic. It provides a nuanced understanding of the role each town plays within a larger regional system.
Nelson’s Method of Functional Classification of Towns
Nelson’s classification identifies six primary types of towns, based on their dominant economic function. These are not mutually exclusive, and many towns exhibit characteristics of multiple categories, but one function typically prevails.
1. Industrial Towns
These towns are characterized by a concentration of manufacturing industries. Their growth is directly linked to the presence of factories and related industrial activities. They often attract a large working-class population. Example: Jamshedpur, India, heavily reliant on the Tata Steel plant.
2. Commercial Towns
These towns serve as trading and distribution centers for surrounding agricultural or resource-extraction areas. They possess well-developed wholesale and retail markets, banking facilities, and transportation networks. Example: Kanpur, India, historically a major textile trading center.
3. Mining Towns
These towns develop around the extraction of mineral resources like coal, iron ore, or oil. Their fortunes are closely tied to the viability of the mining industry. They often experience boom-and-bust cycles. Example: Dhanbad, India, a major coal mining center.
4. Transport Towns
These towns owe their existence and growth to their strategic location along transportation routes – railways, highways, waterways, or airports. They provide services related to transportation and logistics. Example: Mumbai, India, a major port city and transportation hub.
5. Administrative Towns
These towns function primarily as centers of government administration and political control. They house government offices, courts, and administrative institutions. Example: New Delhi, India, the national capital.
6. Resort/Recreational Towns
These towns develop around natural or man-made attractions that cater to tourism and recreation. Their economy is heavily dependent on the tourism industry. Example: Shimla, India, a popular hill station.
Nelson also acknowledged the existence of ‘mixed’ towns, where multiple functions are present, but emphasized identifying the dominant function for classification purposes.
| Town Type | Dominant Function | Key Characteristics | Example (India) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial | Manufacturing | Factories, large working class, industrial pollution | Jamshedpur |
| Commercial | Trade & Distribution | Wholesale markets, retail shops, banking facilities | Kanpur |
| Mining | Resource Extraction | Mining operations, boom-and-bust cycles, resource dependency | Dhanbad |
| Transport | Transportation & Logistics | Strategic location, transportation infrastructure, logistics services | Mumbai |
| Administrative | Government Administration | Government offices, courts, administrative institutions | New Delhi |
| Resort/Recreational | Tourism & Recreation | Natural attractions, tourism infrastructure, hospitality services | Shimla |
Conclusion
Nelson’s functional classification of towns remains a valuable tool for understanding the diverse roles urban centers play in regional economies. While the economic landscape has evolved since 1959, the core principles of classifying towns based on their dominant functions are still relevant. This classification aids in regional planning, resource allocation, and the development of targeted policies to address the specific needs and challenges of different types of towns. Further research incorporating globalization and technological advancements is needed to refine and update this classification for contemporary urban landscapes.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.