CENTRAL PROVINCES – SURVEYED 1909 – 1911 – JUBBULPORE AND MANDLA DISTRICTS – PUBLISHED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF COLONEL S G BURRARD SURVEYOR GENERAL OF INDIA 1911

Surveyor General: Colonel S. G. Burrard
Publisher: The Survey Of India, Calcutta
Price: £400
Publication Date: 1935
Edition: Fourth edition
Format: Heliozincograph
Condition: In very good condition, unframed
Sheet Size: Sheet Size: 64.4cm x 87cm
Scale: 1:63360 or 1 inch to 1 mile

Condition:

Sheet No. 64 A/4.  COPY SPECIALLY CORRECTED, STAMPED AND PRINTED FOR THE 10TH (JUBBULPORE) INFANTRY BRIGADE. A detailed map of the region on a good scale of 1 inch to 1 mile. Includes the districts of Jubbulpore and the Cantonment, the GIP Railway N E Line and the Satpura Railway. Covers very slightly dusty and marked. Stamp to front cover. Dissected onto linen into 28 sections. Original fold lines. Minor wear to the fold intersections with a very minor amount of loss. A few areas of age toning and marks. Reverse is blank with very minor age toning and marks. In very good, original and unrestored condition. Very scarce.

Location: Map Drawer C: FS: Folder 1220 002479

The 10th (Jubbulpore) Infantry Brigade: A Brief History

The 10th (Jubbulpore) Infantry Brigade was a distinguished formation of the British Indian Army, stationed in Jubbulpore (present-day Jabalpur) in the Central Provinces of British India. The brigade played a significant role in maintaining British colonial authority and ensuring security in a region that was strategically important due to its central location and transportation links.

Formation and Organisation

The 10th Infantry Brigade was part of the larger 5th (Mhow) Division, a key division within the British Indian Army responsible for the central regions of India. The brigade’s primary base was in Jubbulpore, an area that housed important military infrastructure, including barracks, training grounds, and supply depots. The composition of the brigade varied over time, but it generally included a mix of British and Indian infantry battalions.

Units and Composition

In the mid-1930s, including 1935, the brigade was known for having a combination of British and Indian regiments. While specific records from that exact year are limited, the following units were typically associated with the brigade in various periods:

• 2nd Battalion, Cheshire Regiment: A British infantry battalion that served in India and was stationed in Jubbulpore at various times. The regiment was known for its discipline and played a crucial role in ensuring British presence in the region.
• 1st Battalion, 7th Rajput Regiment: An Indian infantry battalion composed of Rajput soldiers, known for their valour and loyalty. This unit was part of the brigade’s Indian contingent, contributing significantly to the brigade’s operational effectiveness.
• 5th Battalion, 8th Punjab Regiment: Another Indian battalion that brought together soldiers from Punjab, known for their martial traditions and combat skills.

The composition of the brigade could be adjusted based on the needs of the British Indian Army, with some units being reassigned or rotated to different postings.

Responsibilities and Role

The primary responsibilities of the 10th (Jubbulpore) Infantry Brigade were:

• Internal Security: The brigade was tasked with maintaining law and order in the Central Provinces. This included responding to civil unrest, which was increasingly common during the 1930s as the Indian independence movement gained momentum. The brigade played a crucial role in suppressing disturbances and ensuring that British interests were safeguarded.
• Training and Preparedness: The brigade regularly conducted military drills and field exercises to maintain high levels of readiness. Soldiers were trained in various aspects of warfare, including jungle operations, given the diverse terrain of India. This preparedness was essential for dealing with any internal or external threats.
• Support to Civil Authorities: The brigade often worked alongside civil administrators to provide assistance during emergencies, such as natural disasters or large-scale public gatherings that required crowd control. The cooperation between military and civil authorities was a key aspect of colonial governance.

Strategic Importance

The stationing of the 10th Infantry Brigade in Jubbulpore was strategically significant. Jubbulpore was a major transportation hub, with railway connections that allowed for the rapid movement of troops and supplies across India. The brigade’s presence in the area ensured that the British could respond swiftly to any threats, whether from tribal uprisings in nearby regions or from political movements within India.

The 5th (Mhow) Division, to which the brigade belonged, was responsible for a vast and diverse area, making the 10th Brigade a crucial part of the overall defence and administrative structure of the British Raj. The brigade’s positioning also allowed it to act as a reserve force that could be deployed to other parts of India if needed.

Historical Context

The 1930s were a turbulent time in British India, marked by the growing momentum of the Indian independence movement. The Civil Disobedience Movement, led by figures like Mahatma Gandhi, posed significant challenges to British authority. The 10th Infantry Brigade, like other military units across India, was often called upon to maintain order and enforce colonial laws. The use of military force to control protests and demonstrations was a common, though controversial, aspect of British rule during this period.

The brigade’s activities also reflected the British Empire’s broader strategy of using a mix of military presence and administrative policies to maintain control over the subcontinent. The British relied heavily on the loyalty of Indian soldiers, who made up a large portion of the brigade, to enforce their authority.

Legacy and Impact

The 10th (Jubbulpore) Infantry Brigade left a lasting impact on the history of the region. The military infrastructure developed in Jubbulpore under British rule laid the groundwork for the city’s continued importance as a military and administrative centre in independent India. The brigade’s service during a period of significant political upheaval highlights the complex role the British Indian Army played in both defending and enforcing British colonial interests.

Jubbulpore District: A Brief Description

In 1935, Jubbulpore District (present-day Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh, India) was an important administrative and military centre in the Central Provinces and Berar under the British Raj. The district had a rich history, blending indigenous cultural traditions with the influences of British colonial rule.

Geography and Landscape

The Jubbulpore District was located in a region characterised by its diverse terrain, including rolling plains, rocky hills, and dense forests. The Narmada River, one of the holiest rivers in India, flowed through the district, providing a crucial source of water and sustaining the agriculture of the area. The land was fertile in the river valley, making it ideal for the cultivation of crops, while the surrounding hills were covered with forests that were home to a variety of wildlife.

The district’s climate was subtropical, with hot summers, a monsoon season that brought heavy rains, and cooler winters. The natural beauty of the area, including the Marble Rocks of Bhedaghat and the lush surroundings of the Narmada River, made it a place of cultural and religious significance.

Economy and Industry

In 1935, the economy of Jubbulpore District was primarily agricultural, with the majority of the population engaged in farming. The fertile plains along the Narmada River were used to grow crops such as wheat, rice, millet, and cotton. The district also had a thriving trade in forest products, including timber, bamboo, and medicinal herbs, which were extracted from the surrounding forests.

The industrial landscape of Jubbulpore was marked by the presence of several manufacturing and processing industries. The British had established various mills and factories, including cotton mills, sawmills, and factories for manufacturing goods needed for the railway and military. The Jubbulpore Gun Carriage Factory, established in the late 19th century, was one of the most important military manufacturing units in India. It produced artillery and other equipment for the British Indian Army and was a significant employer in the district.

Military Importance

Jubbulpore was a key military base in the Central Provinces due to its strategic location and well-developed infrastructure. The 10th (Jubbulpore) Infantry Brigade was stationed in the district, and the city served as a training and logistics centre for British and Indian troops. The military presence was reinforced by a well-established railway network that allowed for the rapid movement of soldiers and supplies across the region.

The Jubbulpore Cantonment area was developed with military barracks, training grounds, and supply depots, reflecting the British emphasis on maintaining a strong defence in central India. The cantonment was a separate administrative area, housing British officers, soldiers, and their families, and featured modern amenities for the time, such as clubs, hospitals, and schools.

Infrastructure and Urban Development

By 1935, Jubbulpore had become a well-developed urban centre, with a blend of traditional Indian and British colonial architecture. The city had broad, tree-lined avenues, government buildings, and a bustling railway station that connected it to other major cities in India, such as Bombay (Mumbai), Calcutta (Kolkata), and Delhi. The Grand Trunk Road, one of the most important highways of the Indian subcontinent, passed through the district, facilitating trade and travel.

The British had invested heavily in infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, and public buildings. The city also had a well-established education system, with schools and colleges catering to both the Indian and European populations. The Robertson College (now known as Government Science College, Jabalpur) was a prominent institution, offering higher education to the local population.

Society and Culture

The society of Jubbulpore in 1935 was a mix of different cultures, religions, and social classes. The district was home to a significant number of Hindus, Muslims, Jains, Sikhs, and a smaller community of Christians, reflecting the religious diversity of the region. Hindi, Marathi, and Urdu were the main languages spoken, with English used in official and educational settings.

The social life of Jubbulpore was vibrant, with various festivals and cultural events celebrated throughout the year. Hindu festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Navratri were marked with great enthusiasm, while Muslim festivals such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha were also celebrated widely. The city was known for its rich cultural heritage, with traditional music, dance, and theatre performances being an integral part of community life.

Jubbulpore was also a hub for the arts and crafts of the region. Local artisans were known for their work in carving marble, weaving, and creating beautiful handicrafts. The Marble Rocks at Bhedaghat were a popular attraction, where artisans carved intricate sculptures from the local marble, which were sold in markets throughout India.

Political Climate and Independence Movement

By 1935, Jubbulpore, like much of India, was witnessing the growing influence of the Indian independence movement. The Indian National Congress had a strong presence in the district, and nationalist leaders frequently held meetings and rallies to mobilise support for independence from British rule. The passage of the Government of India Act 1935 was a significant political event, as it introduced provincial autonomy and aimed to grant more self-governance to Indian provinces, though it fell short of the demands of Indian nationalists.

The local population in Jubbulpore was actively involved in the independence movement, participating in acts of civil disobedience and protests against colonial policies. The district’s educated class, including lawyers, teachers, and students, played a prominent role in advocating for social and political reforms.

Legacy and Impact

Jubbulpore District in 1935 was a microcosm of the broader changes occurring in British India. The district’s development as an administrative, industrial, and military hub left a lasting impact on the region’s infrastructure and economy. The influence of British colonial rule could be seen in the city’s architecture, educational institutions, and industrial establishments.

Jubbulore Cantonment: A Brief Description

The Jubbulpore Cantonment (now known as Jabalpur Cantonment) was an essential military establishment in British India located in the Central Provinces. Established in the early 19th century, the cantonment was developed into a significant military base by the mid-19th and early 20th centuries, serving as a strategic hub for the British Indian Army. By 1935, it had become a vital centre for military training, administration, and logistics, reflecting the British Empire’s focus on maintaining control over central India.

Strategic Importance

The Jubbulpore Cantonment was of strategic importance due to its central location in India, which allowed for the rapid mobilisation of troops and resources to various parts of the subcontinent. Its proximity to key transportation networks, including the Grand Trunk Road and a well-developed railway system, made it a logistical hub for the movement of soldiers, military equipment, and supplies. The cantonment played a crucial role in supporting British military operations both within India and along the northwestern frontier.

The presence of the 10th (Jubbulpore) Infantry Brigade highlighted the cantonment’s significance. This brigade, along with other military units, was responsible for maintaining internal security, assisting in colonial governance, and being ready for deployment in case of emergencies or conflicts.

Military Infrastructure

The Jubbulpore Cantonment was well-planned and equipped with a range of facilities designed to support a large military presence. Key features included:

• Barracks: The cantonment had extensive barracks for both British and Indian soldiers. These barracks were constructed to accommodate the harsh climate, with measures to ensure the comfort and health of the troops.
• Training Grounds: There were vast open spaces and parade grounds where soldiers carried out drills, training exercises, and ceremonial parades. The training facilities were state-of-the-art for the time, focusing on infantry tactics, weapon handling, and physical conditioning.
• Armouries and Supply Depots: The cantonment was equipped with armouries for storing weapons and ammunition, as well as supply depots for food, uniforms, and other essentials needed by the troops. The Jubbulpore Gun Carriage Factory, located nearby, provided a steady supply of military equipment, including artillery and gun carriages.
• Military Hospital: A well-maintained military hospital served the health needs of soldiers and their families. It was staffed by British and Indian medical personnel, and it provided care for both routine and emergency medical situations.
• Administrative Offices: The cantonment housed administrative buildings where British officers managed military affairs, logistics, and communication with higher command structures. These offices were crucial for coordinating the activities of the various military units stationed in Jubbulpore.

Civil and Social Life

While the cantonment was primarily a military area, it also included facilities and amenities for the social and recreational needs of British officers, soldiers, and their families. This included:

• Clubs and Messes: The officers’ club and mess were central to the social life of British officers. These establishments hosted formal dinners, social gatherings, and events that reinforced the camaraderie and exclusivity of the officer class. There were also facilities for sports such as polo, cricket, and tennis, which were popular among the British elite.
• Churches: Churches were established to cater to the spiritual needs of the Christian population in the cantonment. Sunday services and religious ceremonies were an integral part of life for British families.
• Schools: Schools were set up for the children of British officers and soldiers. The education system followed British curricula and aimed to provide a quality education that would prepare students for life either in India or back in the United Kingdom.
• Bazaars and Markets: The cantonment had local markets where both British residents and Indian civilians could purchase goods. The markets sold everything from fresh produce to imported British goods, and they were a place of interaction between the local and colonial populations.

Relationship with the City of Jubbulpore

The Jubbulpore Cantonment was administratively separate from the main city of Jubbulpore, but there was significant interaction between the two areas. The cantonment had a distinct colonial atmosphere, with British architecture, wide roads, and a sense of order that contrasted with the bustling, traditional Indian city nearby. However, the economic activities in Jubbulpore were closely linked to the cantonment, as many local businesses provided goods and services to the military establishment.

The relationship between the British residents of the cantonment and the Indian population was marked by a clear social hierarchy. The British officers and their families lived in relative luxury, with servants and privileges, while Indian soldiers and workers had a more modest existence. The presence of the British military also had a cultural impact on the region, influencing local customs, language, and social practices.

Legacy

The Jubbulpore Cantonment played a crucial role in the British colonial administration and defence strategy. It was a place where the British Empire’s influence was most visible, with a blend of military discipline and colonial opulence. The infrastructure and institutions established by the British, such as the Gun Carriage Factory, continued to have a lasting impact on the city of Jubbulpore even after Indian independence.

The Great Indian Peninsula Railway North-East Line: A Brief Description

The Great Indian Peninsula Railway (GIPR) North-East Line was a crucial segment of the GIP Railway network in British India, connecting key locations in the central and north-eastern parts of the subcontinent. By 1935, this line had become a vital transportation route for both passengers and freight, contributing significantly to the economic development of the region.

Route and Key Connections

The North-East Line of the GIP Railway extended from Bombay (Mumbai), the western terminus of the railway, and moved northeast through important cities and junctions. The line connected Bombay to Itarsi, from where it branched out further to the northeast, reaching places like Jubbulpore (Jabalpur), Allahabad, and eventually Calcutta (Kolkata).

• Bombay to Itarsi: This section of the line passed through major cities such as Nasik and Khandwa, providing a vital link between the western coast and the heart of the country. Itarsi was a major railway junction, where trains from different parts of India converged.
• Itarsi to Jubbulpore: The line continued from Itarsi to Jubbulpore, crossing the Satpura Range and passing through dense forests and rugged terrain. This section was crucial for connecting the central regions to the north-eastern parts of India.
• Jubbulpore to Allahabad: From Jubbulpore, the line extended to Allahabad, a major cultural and administrative centre. The route facilitated the movement of passengers and goods between central and northern India.
• Allahabad to Calcutta: The line further stretched to Calcutta, one of the most important cities and ports in British India. Calcutta was a major hub for trade and commerce, and the railway line played a crucial role in transporting goods to and from the port.

Economic Impact

The North-East Line of the GIP Railway was instrumental in the economic integration of central and north-eastern India. It enabled the efficient transport of raw materials, agricultural produce, and manufactured goods. Key economic contributions included:

• Agriculture: The line facilitated the movement of crops such as wheat, rice, and cotton from the fertile plains of central India to markets and ports. It also enabled the distribution of agricultural products to regions that needed food supplies.
• Industry and Mining: The North-East Line connected industrial centres and mining regions to major urban markets. The transport of coal from the mines in Jharia and Raniganj to industrial cities like Bombay and Calcutta was a crucial function of the railway. Additionally, raw materials such as iron ore and manganese were transported to factories, boosting industrial output.
• Trade and Commerce: The line served as a major trade route, linking Bombay and Calcutta, two of the most important commercial cities in British India. Goods from international trade routes could be quickly transported between the two cities, enhancing economic efficiency.

Passenger Services

The GIP Railway’s North-East Line provided both luxury and basic passenger services. First-class carriages offered a comfortable travel experience for British officials, wealthy Indians, and merchants, complete with well-upholstered seats and onboard dining facilities. Third-class compartments were often crowded, with basic seating and few amenities, catering to the vast majority of Indian passengers.

The line was known for its scenic views, especially the section that passed through the Satpura Range and along the Narmada River near Jubbulpore. This made train travel an experience that combined both convenience and the beauty of the Indian landscape.

Strategic Importance

The GIP Railway’s North-East Line was of immense strategic value to the British colonial administration. It allowed for the rapid deployment of troops and military supplies across the central and north-eastern regions of India. During times of unrest or emergencies, the railway was used to mobilise British and Indian forces quickly. The line also connected to other railway networks, creating a comprehensive system that spanned the entire subcontinent.

The railway line’s strategic significance was especially evident during World War I, and it continued to play a crucial role in British defence strategies leading up to World War II. The efficient transport of troops and equipment was essential for maintaining British control over India and its frontiers.

Engineering Challenges and Achievements

Constructing the North-East Line involved significant engineering efforts, particularly in areas like the Satpura Range. Building the railway through hilly and forested terrain required the construction of bridges, tunnels, and embankments. The engineers had to design the line to handle steep gradients and sharp curves, ensuring the safety and reliability of train operations.

The use of steam locomotives was a technological achievement for the time, allowing trains to haul heavy loads across challenging landscapes. The railway stations along the line were built with colonial architectural styles, featuring grand facades and functional layouts to handle large numbers of passengers and freight.

Legacy

The GIP Railway’s North-East Line laid the foundation for modern railway infrastructure in India. The route continues to be an essential part of Indian Railways, with many of the original tracks having been upgraded to broad-gauge lines to accommodate modern trains. The economic and social impact of the railway network is still felt today, as it continues to connect people and facilitate trade across the country.

The Satpura Railway: A Brief Description

The Satpura Railway was an important narrow-gauge railway network in British India, built to serve the central regions of the subcontinent, particularly the areas surrounding the Satpura Range. It played a significant role in the development of the Central Provinces, facilitating the movement of goods and passengers across a region that was otherwise difficult to traverse due to the rugged terrain.

Development and Construction

The Satpura Railway was constructed as part of the broader efforts to expand the railway infrastructure in British India. It primarily consisted of narrow-gauge lines, which were more cost-effective to build and maintain in hilly and forested areas compared to standard-gauge railways. The narrow-gauge lines were well-suited to the region’s topography, allowing trains to navigate the steep gradients and sharp curves of the Satpura hills.

Construction of the railway began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with the aim of linking key towns and facilitating the transport of natural resources from the Satpura region to other parts of India. By the 1930s, the Satpura Railway had become an integral part of the Bengal Nagpur Railway (BNR) network, which managed and operated several lines in the central and eastern parts of India.

Route and Connectivity

The Satpura Railway connected various towns and cities in the Central Provinces, including Jubbulpore (Jabalpur), Gondia, Chhindwara, and Nagpur. The network extended through the dense forests and hills of the Satpura Range, providing vital connectivity to remote areas that were rich in natural resources, such as timber, coal, and minerals.

One of the major lines ran from Jabalpur to Gondia, passing through important towns like Nainpur, which served as a central hub for the narrow-gauge network. From Gondia, the line further extended to Nagpur, creating a crucial link between the northern and southern parts of the region.

Economic Impact

The Satpura Railway had a significant economic impact on the region. It facilitated the transport of forest products, such as teak and bamboo, from the dense forests of the Satpura Range to urban centres and ports. The railway also enabled the movement of agricultural produce from rural areas to markets, boosting the local economy and integrating it into the broader economic framework of British India.

Coal mining and mineral extraction were also important industries in the Satpura region. The railway provided an efficient means of transporting these resources to industrial centres, contributing to the growth of manufacturing and other related sectors. Additionally, the railway played a role in the development of towns along its route, as new markets, administrative centres, and settlements emerged around the railway stations.

Passenger Services and Social Impact

The Satpura Railway was not only used for freight but also offered passenger services. It provided a vital means of transport for people living in the Satpura region, connecting them to major towns and cities. The narrow-gauge trains were slower than the standard-gauge trains, but they offered a scenic and unique travel experience, passing through picturesque landscapes of hills, valleys, and forests.

For the local population, the railway was a game-changer, providing greater mobility and access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. It also brought people from different backgrounds into closer contact, fostering social and cultural exchanges. The railway stations became bustling centres of activity, where traders, travellers, and local communities interacted.

Engineering and Challenges

Building the Satpura Railway was a significant engineering challenge due to the rugged and forested terrain of the Satpura Range. The construction required the use of bridges, tunnels, and steep embankments to navigate the difficult landscape. The engineers had to be innovative in designing the narrow-gauge lines to ensure the safety and efficiency of train operations.

One of the engineering marvels of the Satpura Railway was the Nainpur Junction, which became the largest narrow-gauge railway junction in India. Nainpur served as a key hub where multiple lines converged, and it played a crucial role in the overall functioning of the Satpura network.

Legacy

The legacy of the Satpura Railway is still evident today. Although some of the narrow-gauge lines have been converted to broad-gauge under the modernisation efforts of Indian Railways, the Satpura Railway remains a symbol of the engineering ingenuity and economic significance of the colonial railway projects. The railway helped open up the Satpura region, contributing to its development and integration into the national economy.

The picturesque routes of the Satpura Railway, especially the sections passing through forests and hills, continue to be remembered fondly by railway enthusiasts and historians. The network played a crucial role in shaping the history and development of central India.

Colonel S. G. Burrard: A Short Biography

Colonel Sidney Gerald Burrard (1860–1943) was a prominent British geographer, geodesist, and surveyor, best known for his work as the Surveyor General of India from 1908 to 1919. His tenure at the Survey of India is remembered for significant contributions to the understanding and mapping of India’s complex terrain, particularly the Himalayas.

Key Contributions of Colonel Burrard:

1. Geodetic and Topographical Surveys:
   • Burrard was a leading figure in geodesy, the science of measuring and understanding the Earth’s geometric shape, orientation in space, and gravity field. His work on triangulation surveys in India was vital in improving the accuracy of maps, particularly in remote and mountainous regions like Kashmir and the Himalayas.
   • Under his direction, the Survey of India undertook some of its most challenging projects, mapping the difficult terrain of British India, including Kashmir, which required precise measurements and detailed topographical studies.
2. Study of the Himalayas:
   • One of Colonel Burrard’s most renowned areas of focus was the Himalayas, particularly in determining the heights of the major peaks. He was involved in refining measurements of Mount Everest and other significant summits, contributing to a better understanding of the region’s geography.
   • His co-authored work, “A Sketch of the Geography and Geology of the Himalaya Mountains and Tibet”, remains a notable publication, providing detailed analysis of the physical geography and geological features of the Himalayan region.
3. Publications and Theoretical Work:
   • Burrard published extensively on geodesy and geography. His research included discussions on the Great Trigonometrical Survey and its importance in the understanding of the Earth’s shape and the curvature of the Himalayas.
   • He was a key proponent of the theory of isostasy, which explained the balance of the Earth’s crust as it “floats” on the denser, underlying layers of the Earth’s mantle. His studies helped further the understanding of how mountain ranges like the Himalayas were supported by the Earth’s internal structure.
4. Survey of Kashmir:
   • During his tenure, the Survey of India published important surveys of the Kashmir Valley and other regions in northern India. The 1911 survey of Baramulla and Anantnag districts, which was published under Burrard’s direction in 1912, is an example of the detailed cartographic and geographical documentation carried out by his department.
   • These surveys were crucial for the British administration, as Kashmir’s strategic location made it a region of significant interest, not only for governance but also for military planning and economic development.
5. Recognition and Legacy:
   • For his services, Colonel Burrard was highly regarded by both his peers and the British government. His work laid the foundation for many subsequent advancements in geographical and geodetic sciences in India.
   • Burrard’s contributions continued to influence surveying and geographical practices in India well into the 20th century, with his legacy enduring in the field of geodesy and Himalayan studies.

Impact on British India:

Colonel Burrard’s tenure as Surveyor General coincided with a period when the British Empire placed immense importance on accurate mapping for both administrative and military purposes. The surveys carried out under his direction, including those in Kashmir and the North-West Frontier, were vital for understanding the physical landscape of one of the most geopolitically sensitive regions of the British Empire.

Burrard’s leadership in the Survey of India not only expanded the body of knowledge about India’s geography but also set standards for precision in surveying and mapping, which were essential for the governance, development, and defence of British India.

His work continues to be of historical importance, especially for geographers, historians, and those interested in colonial cartography. His surveys of Kashmir and other Himalayan regions remain key references in understanding the early 20th-century geography of these areas.

Heliozincography: A Short Description

Heliozincography is a printing process that was developed in the 19th century to reproduce maps, plans, and other illustrations with great detail. The term is derived from heliography (a photographic process using sunlight) and zincography (a method of printing using zinc plates).

Key Features of Heliozincography:

1. Combination of Photography and Printing:
   • Heliozincography involved transferring photographic images onto zinc plates, which could then be used to reproduce maps or drawings. The process started with a photograph of the original map or illustration, which was then used to prepare a printing plate.
2. Zinc Plates:
   • The process utilized zinc plates as the medium for printing, replacing traditional stone or copper plates that had been used earlier in lithography and engraving. Zinc offered a cheaper and faster alternative for producing detailed prints.
3. Application in Cartography:
   • Heliozincography was widely used for map reproduction, especially by government survey departments, including the Survey of India and the Ordnance Survey in Britain. It allowed the mass production of accurate and detailed maps.
   • For example, the Survey of India under Colonel Sidney Gerald Burrard would have used heliozincography or similar methods to reproduce maps from surveys like the 1911 Baramulla and Anantnag survey.
4. Advantages:
   • Cost-effectiveness: Zinc plates were cheaper to produce than copper or stone plates.
   • Speed: It allowed for quicker production of multiple copies, which was especially useful for distributing maps and technical drawings.
   • Precision: The photographic component of the process ensured a high degree of accuracy in reproducing details.
5. Process:
   • The original image (such as a map or drawing) was photographed, and the photographic image was chemically transferred onto the surface of the zinc plate.
   • The plate was then treated with chemicals so that only the lines or details to be printed remained on the surface, while the rest was etched away.
   • Ink would adhere to the raised parts of the plate, and the image would be transferred onto paper through a printing press.

Historical Use:

• Survey of India: The heliozincograph was widely used by the Survey of India for producing accurate and reproducible maps of regions such as Kashmir. Given the difficulty in producing detailed maps of mountainous terrain, the precision of this process was essential for both administrative and military purposes.
• Ordnance Survey: In the UK, heliozincography was used by the Ordnance Survey to reproduce topographical maps with the necessary detail for military and civilian use.

Conclusion:

Heliozincography played a crucial role in the mass production of accurate, detailed maps and technical drawings in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It combined the emerging technology of photography with traditional zinc plate printing, providing a fast, cost-effective method for disseminating important geographical and technical information, particularly in fields like cartography.

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