CLIMATE
The climate of Bilaspur district is sub-tropical, semi arid, continental and monsoon type. Thus, it has hot summers, cool winters and small rainy season. The winter season starts towards the later half of November and extends till about the middle of March followed by summer, which continues till about the end of June when maximum temperature reaches up to 45’ C and dust cyclones are common. After it, southwest monsoon arrives. The rainy season remains between July to September. The post monsoon months October and November constitute a transitional period from monsoon to winter season.The climate is ideal for agriculture development, particularly for wheat, rice, sugarcane and cotton crops. Limited rainy season, good and healthy climate is suitable for industrial development also.
RAINFALL
Annual rainfall of the district is about 58.cm. Rainfall is unevenly distributed and decreases form south cast to Southwest. Rainy season starts from July to September. About 80% of the total rainfall is received during this period. Some amount of rainfall is received from western disturbances during winter season. Due to less rainfall and its short duration the agricultural activity is mostly dependent upon canal irrigation and tubewells.
Divisions, Tehsils and Blocks
Bilaspur district consists of 8 tehsils. These tehsils are Bilaspur, Pendra, Pendra Road, Kota, Takhatpur, Bilha, Marwahi and Masturi. There is 7 blocks and the total number of villages in the district is 909 . The headquarters of the district is Bilaspur. It is the second largest city in the state and the seat of the High Court of Chhattisgarh. It is called Nyaydhani (legal capital) of Chhattisgarh. Bilaspur is famous for Kanan Pendari Zoo Park. Arpa is a river passing through the district, it is very shallow in depth, but creates havoc during rains.
Rivers and Drainage System
The major river of Bilaspur district is Arpa. The river originates in Khodri Khongsara of Pendra sub division and is the largest river in the district and is about 100 k.m. long. Other major rivers of the district are as Leelagar and Maniyari.