Geographical analysis of urbanization: Example of Patnos (Ağrı)

Patnos; It is a district administratively affiliated to Ağrı Province, located in the Upper Murat-Van Section of the Eastern Anatolia Region. Patnos, located on a plain surrounded by high mountains, has been under the rule of many civilizations throughout history, especially Assyria and Urartu. Patnos, which became a district in 1936, has a surface area of 1421 km². Located at a crossroads where important roads intersect, Patnos has entered a rapid urbanization process since 2000 with the advantages of its physical and human characteristics. The urban physiology of Patnos, which continues its development today; It has been shaped by the effects of topography, geological structure, climate, transportation, technology, administrative and sociological structure. The urban fabric in the district consists of residences, avenue-street systems, central business areas and public spaces. For this study, which includes the analysis of the urbanization process, the physical and human geographical elements within the boundaries of the district were selected as a sample. At the beginning of the research process, a general situation determination was made and resources related to the subject were searched. In the next stage, data were obtained through fieldwork in the research area. The data obtained from both field research and related institutions and organizations were digitized and used in making maps, tables and graphics. In this study, explanatory mixed design method, in which qualitative and quantitative data were mixed, was used. In terms of functional features, it is seen that education, agriculture, management and commercial functions have developed in Patnos, but health, transportation and industry functions have not developed enough. Urbanization, which is a natural result of population growth, has brought some problems in the district. Therefore, eliminating transportation and infrastructure problems for a sustainable urbanization will make Patnos a more livable city.