Impact of Urban Proximity on Social Infrastructure Access in Rural Punjab

This study examines how the distance from urban centers, specifically Ludhiana, affects the availability and quality of essential services in rural areas. The research focuses on six villages randomly selected by their proximity to Ludhiana, with a sample size of 90 households. The study utilizes a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data on infrastructure accessibility with qualitative insights into rural-urban dynamics. Key findings revealed that there exists significant disparities in access to healthcare, education, and other services based on urban proximity. Villages closer to Ludhiana benefit from better access to urban services whereas far away areas depend on their local facilities. The research validates the hypothesis that geographic distance from urban centers influences social infrastructure distribution, highlighting necessity for policy interventions. These findings have implications for rural development strategies, improvement of transportation networks and enhancing local services to ensure equitable access.