ANALYSING THE POPULATION GROWTH IN PADUKKA DIVISIONAL SECRETARIAT DIVISION

Abstract

The study aimed to analyse the urban characteristics of the Padukka Divisional Secretariat Division (DSD) based on a suggested alternative definition; where GNDs with a minimum population of 750 persons and a population density greater than 500 persons per km2, can be considered urban. Two objectives were formulated for the study; identifying urban characteristics of the study area based on population and identifying urban characteristics in the study area based on population density. Eight Grama Niladari Division (GNDs)s of the Padukka DSD are selected for the study. The results of the study revealed that the Padukka DSD can be classified as urban since 2001 in terms of population and population density and the central and northern segments of the area are highest in urban character. Prediction of the population in the area shows further development of urban character with linear growth, an estimated 22,755 persons in 2040. Future studies are needed to analyse the urban characteristics of the Padukka DSD in terms of the land use pattern, domestic water usage, and domestic fuel usage.