Orsha district

Orsha District (Belarusian: Аршанскі раён, romanized: Aršanski rajon; Russian: Оршанский район, romanized: Orshanskiy rayon) is an administrative subdivision (raion) of Vitebsk Region, Belarus. Its administrative center is the city of Orsha, which is administratively separate from the district itself.

Geography

The district is located in the southeastern part of Vitebsk Region and is known for its relatively flat terrain and agricultural lands. It borders other districts within Vitebsk Region, as well as Mogilev Region. The Dnieper River flows through the district.

History

The area has a long history, dating back to ancient times. The region around Orsha has been a site of significant historical events and battles. The district was formally established as an administrative unit within the Belarusian Soviet Socialist Republic and has remained part of independent Belarus since 1991.

Demographics

The population of Orsha District (excluding the city of Orsha) is predominantly Belarusian. There are also significant minorities of Russians and Ukrainians. The population is largely rural, engaged in agriculture and related industries.

Economy

The economy of Orsha District is primarily agricultural, with a focus on crop production and animal husbandry. There are also some industrial enterprises located within the district, often related to processing agricultural products. The district benefits from its proximity to the city of Orsha, a major transportation hub.

Administrative Divisions

The district is divided into several selsoviets (rural councils), which are the lowest level of administrative division in Belarus. These selsoviets encompass various villages and settlements within the district.

Transportation

The district has a developed transportation infrastructure, with roads and railways connecting it to other regions of Belarus and neighboring countries. Its proximity to the city of Orsha, a major railway junction, is a significant advantage.