The land surveying methods used in Andhra Pradesh have evolved significantly over time, each with its unique approach and impact on land management. Understanding these methods sheds light on the historical shaping of land records in the region.
1. Paimash System:
In the early 19th century, the Paimash Survey was conducted across several districts of the undivided Madras State, recording name, measurements and boundaries north to south and east to west were recorded on Palmyra palm leaves or paper using a 24-foot chain. Each ‘enjoyment’ was numbered, and areas were calculated using the Khasra method, by multiplying the average of the widths by the average of the lengths, the areas were get and recorded in Kanis.
2. Block Map System:
However, limitations arose with the Block Map System, particularly in areas with numerous enjoyments like Visakhapatnam and Srikakulam districts. The lack of independent plottable data posed challenges in efficient land management and the need to measure very long G-lines and wastes a lot of time in the field.
3. Simple Triangulation (with offsets):
Around 1877, when there were countless bends on field boundaries, surveyors were allowed to determine by offsetting the positions of all marks less than 50 links from the direct line between adjacent survey stones. reducing the laborious nature of chaining between field stones. Despite its potential efficiency, widespread adoption of this method was limited.
4. Diagonal and offset system:
This is the latest survey method in use. The main processes in cadastral survey are location, demarcation, measurement, mapping and computation of areas of holdings and preparation of field register or land register giving relevant details of these holdings for carrying out settlement works. An idea of the overall operations can be derived from several processes described below.
| Process | Work Done |
|---|---|
A |
Boundary demarcation
(Village as well as khandams
or Sub Circuits). |
B |
Traverse Survey. |
C |
Traverse Computation. |
D |
Traverse Plotting. |
E |
Field Demarcation. |
F |
Field Measurement. |
G |
Plotting Village Map. |
H |
Finishing Village Map and Area Computation. |
The evolution of survey systems in Andhra Pradesh reflects the ongoing efforts to overcome challenges in land surveying. From the early Paimash System to the contemporary Diagonal and Offset System, each method has contributed to shaping the region’s land management practices.
