Master plan or zoning method of population forecasting is a scientific method for population forecasting of ‘planned cities’. It is ensured that these cities do not grow in haphazard manner.
In This Article
Master Plan Method (Zoning Method)
Some big and metropolitan cities are planned and then regulated by local bodies to follow through the master plan formulated.
Generally, the master plan is designed for next 25-30 years for a particular city.
Zoning:
- The city is first divided into different zones in the master plan. These zones include commercial, industrial, residential, and other zones.
- The population density in each of these zones is then fixed.
- The population is then allowed to develop in each of the zones as per the master plan only. For this, strict regulations are carried out by imposing various bylaws.
Now, the forecasting of population for water demand can be done. Zoning method gives pretty much accurate results as it is a planned method.
Some Common Population Densities fixed for Various Zones usually taken for Master Plan Preparation
| Sr.No. | Zone Type | Population Density (No. of People/hectare) |
| 1 | Residential Zone Large lot of single family residences Small lot of single family residences Multiple family quarters Tenement houses | 10-50 40-90 90-250 250-3500 or more |
| 2 | Commercial Zone | 40-75 |
| 3 | Industrial Zone | 10-40 |
| 4 | Recreational Zone (Parks, playground, etc) | 25-125 |
Advantages of Zoning Method
- As population growth is fixed, pretty much accurate population data is available for the development of water supply scheme.
- Not only water supply, but waste water generation and water works design can also be planned from the master plan as population details of various zones are available.
Zoning Method Calculation
A sample calculation is shown for understanding.
For instance, in commercial zone of area 10 hectare, a population density of 50 people/hectare are fixed.
When fully developed, the population of this plot will be
50 * 10 = 500 people
Summary
A scientific method of population forecasting, zoning/master plan method is used for planned cities preventing their haphazard growth. The city is divided into different zones and population of each zone is pre-decided.
FAQ
Why master plan method is also called zoning method?
As the entire area of the city is divided into different zones like residential zone, commercial zone, industrial zone, recreational zone, etc. the master plan method can be termed as ’zoning method’.
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