Map Of Tomsk (oblast)

The Tomsk Oblast, a region nestled in the heart of Western Siberia, Russia, is vast and sparsely populated, making its geographical features and infrastructure best understood through a map. A detailed map of the Tomsk Oblast reveals a sprawling territory dominated by the West Siberian Plain, characterized by extensive swamps, forests, and a complex river network.

The dominant geographical feature is the Ob River, one of the largest rivers in the world, which meanders through the Oblast from southeast to northwest. Its primary tributary, the Tom River, gives the region its name and flows northward, meeting the Ob near Tomsk city. The Vasuganskoye Swamp, one of the world’s largest swamps, occupies a significant portion of the western part of the Oblast. These extensive wetlands play a crucial role in regional hydrology and biodiversity, but also present challenges for infrastructure development.

The Oblast’s administrative center, Tomsk city, located on the Tom River, is the most populous settlement and a key transportation hub. The map shows the city’s strategic location at the intersection of major roads and the river network, facilitating connections to other parts of Russia and beyond. Other significant towns marked on the map include Strezhevoy, a major center for oil production in the north, and Kolpashevo, situated on the Ob River and historically important for its river port.

Transportation infrastructure in the Tomsk Oblast is often dictated by the challenging terrain. The Trans-Siberian Railway skirts the southern edge of the Oblast, providing a vital east-west connection. However, within the Oblast itself, roads are often limited, particularly in the northern and western regions. River transport on the Ob and Tom rivers remains crucial, especially for delivering goods to remote settlements. The map clearly illustrates the density of roads and settlements along the river corridors, reflecting the historical reliance on waterways for transportation.

Resources are a major focus of the Tomsk Oblast’s economy, and maps often highlight areas of oil and gas extraction. The northern part of the Oblast, particularly around Strezhevoy, is dotted with oil fields and pipelines. Forestry is another significant industry, and the map reveals vast areas of coniferous forests used for timber production. The location of these resource extraction areas often determines the placement of settlements and infrastructure, influencing the region’s overall development pattern.

Different types of maps provide varying levels of detail. Physical maps emphasize the Oblast’s terrain, showcasing the elevation changes (though generally minimal), river systems, and swampy areas. Political maps illustrate the administrative divisions within the Oblast, delineating the different districts and municipalities. Thematic maps might focus on population density, resource distribution, or transportation networks. Examining these different map types provides a comprehensive understanding of the Tomsk Oblast’s complex geography, economy, and infrastructure.