Balurghat

Last updated

Balurghat
City
1971 Pakistani Tank which surrendered to Indian Army in Balurghat.jpg
1971 War Tank More Balurghat
Kachikala club Durga Puja.jpg
Durga Puja in Balurghat
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Balurghat Museum
City Centre Balurghat Night Picture.jpg
City Centre Balurghat
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Balurghat
Location in West Bengal, India
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Balurghat
Balurghat (India)
Coordinates: 25°13′N88°46′E / 25.22°N 88.76°E / 25.22; 88.76
CountryFlag of India.svg India
State West Bengal
Division Malda division
District Dakshin Dinajpur
Subdivision Balurghat subdivision
Government
  Type Municipality
  BodyBalurghat Municipality
   Chairman Ashok Kumar Mitra (TMC)
   Legislature
   Executive
Officers
   Judiciary
Judges
Area
[1]
  Total
10.76 km2 (4.15 sq mi)
Elevation
24 m (79 ft)
Population
 (2011) [2]
  Total
151,416
  Density14,000/km2 (36,000/sq mi)
  City Rank
20th in West Bengal
Languages
  Official Bengali [3] [4]
  Additional official English [3]
Time zone UTC+5:30 (IST)
PIN
733101, 733102, 733103
Telephone code03522
Vehicle registration WB-61 to WB-62
Lok Sabha constituency Balurghat
Vidhan Sabha constituency Balurghat
Airport Balurghat Airport
Transit Highway : NH-512
Railway : BLGT
City Development Authority NBDD
Website Government of West Bengal
Dakshin Dinajpur
Balurghat Municipality
Dakshin Dinajpur Zilla Parishad

Balurghat is a city and municipality located in the Dakshin Dinajpur district of West Bengal, India, serving as the district headquarters. Strategically positioned on National Highway 512, it is well-connected by road and rail, facilitating trade and travel within the state and to neighbouring regions. The Atrai River flows through Balurghat, contributing to the area's agricultural prosperity by providing vital water resources for both the city and its surrounding areas. Known for its rich cultural heritage, the town blends rural and urban characteristics and is a major hub for commerce, education, and government administration in the region. Balurghat has a strong agricultural base, primarily focused on rice cultivation, and hosts numerous small-scale industries. The town has also seen gradual urbanisation, with significant developments in infrastructure, healthcare, and public services, which have enhanced the quality of life for its residents. With a tropical climate featuring hot summers and moderate winters, the city thrives in agricultural productivity and continues to grow as a key center in southern West Bengal, near the Bangladesh border, adding geopolitical significance.

Contents

History

Ancient period

Balurghat and its surrounding regions have a history that dates back to ancient times. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was part of the Pundravardhana kingdom, which flourished between the 4th century BCE and the 6th century CE. Inscriptions and artefacts from the Gupta period found near the Balurghat region indicate its historical significance as a center of trade and culture. The presence of ancient terracotta and pottery artefacts further underscores its cultural and commercial connections during this era. [5] [6]

Medieval period

During the medieval period, the region came under the influence of various dynasties, including the Palas and Senas. The strategic location of Balurghat, near the banks of the Atrai River, made it an important hub for trade and agriculture. With the establishment of Islamic rule in Bengal in the 13th century, the area experienced significant socio-economic and cultural transformations. The remnants of mosques and tombs from this period are evidence of the Islamic architectural influence in the region. [7]

Colonial period

The modern history of Balurghat began to take shape during the British colonial era. It was a part of the Dinajpur district under the Bengal Presidency. The region witnessed significant administrative and infrastructural development during the 19th and early 20th centuries, including the introduction of railways and educational institutions. However, the Partition of Bengal in 1947 profoundly impacted Balurghat, as it became a border town with East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). This led to demographic changes due to migration and economic shifts caused by the disruption of traditional trade routes. [8]

Post-independence period

After Indian independence, Balurghat became the district headquarters of West Dinajpur in West Bengal. The town developed as an administrative and cultural center. Over the years, it has grown in prominence due to its strategic location near the India-Bangladesh border. Initiatives for regional connectivity and cross-border trade have further boosted its economic importance. The establishment of institutions like Balurghat College in 1948 contributed to the town's educational growth. [9] [10]

Modern developments

In recent years, Balurghat has witnessed urbanisation and infrastructural development, including improved road and rail connectivity. Cultural festivals like the Durga Puja & Christmas highlight the town's rich heritage and attract visitors. Its proximity to significant natural and historical sites makes Balurghat a growing center for tourism in West Bengal. [11]

Geography

Location

In the map alongside, all places marked on the map are linked in the full screen version.

Balurghat
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16km
9.9miles
Q
Bangladesh
P
India
H
Bangarh
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R
Kumarganj
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R
Patiram
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R
Hili Checkpoint
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CT
Chak Bhrigu
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CT
Dakra
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CT
Par Patiram
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CT
Gopalpur
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CT
Harirampur
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M
Buniadpur
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M
Balurghat
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M
Gangarampur
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Cities and towns in the Dakshin Dinajpur district
M: municipal city/ town, CT: census town, R: rural/ urban centre, H: historical site
Owing to space constraints in the small map, the actual locations in a larger map may vary slightly.

Balurghat is at 25°13′N88°46′E / 25.22°N 88.77°E / 25.22; 88.77 . [12] It has an average elevation of 25 metres (82 feet). The town covers 10.76 km2 (4.15 sq mi) of area. [1]

River Atreyee runs across the city, dividing it into disproportionate halves. The heart of the city, with important administrative, cultural and entertainment hubs, is on the eastern bank of the river. India-Bangladesh border is approximately 3 km from the town.

Police stations

Balurghat police station under West Bengal police has jurisdiction over Balurghat municipal area and Balurghat CD Block. [13] [14] Balurghat Women police station has jurisdiction over Balurghat subdivision. [14]

Subdivision and CD block HQ

Balurghat subdivision has its headquarters at Balurghat. [13] The headquarters of Balurghat CD block is at Balurghat. [15] [16]

Climate

Climate data for Balurghat (1991–2020, extremes 1960–2012)
MonthJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecYear
Record high °C (°F)32.0
(89.6)
34.9
(94.8)
39.1
(102.4)
42.2
(108.0)
43.4
(110.1)
43.0
(109.4)
40.0
(104.0)
38.8
(101.8)
37.0
(98.6)
38.0
(100.4)
35.5
(95.9)
33.0
(91.4)
43.4
(110.1)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F)24.3
(75.7)
27.8
(82.0)
32.1
(89.8)
34.6
(94.3)
34.8
(94.6)
34.4
(93.9)
33.5
(92.3)
33.6
(92.5)
33.4
(92.1)
32.3
(90.1)
29.2
(84.6)
26.3
(79.3)
31.4
(88.5)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F)11.4
(52.5)
15.1
(59.2)
19.4
(66.9)
22.5
(72.5)
24.2
(75.6)
25.1
(77.2)
24.9
(76.8)
24.9
(76.8)
24.7
(76.5)
23.2
(73.8)
18.4
(65.1)
14.1
(57.4)
20.7
(69.3)
Record low °C (°F)4.1
(39.4)
6.2
(43.2)
9.7
(49.5)
12.4
(54.3)
14.8
(58.6)
14.8
(58.6)
17.0
(62.6)
16.8
(62.2)
16.2
(61.2)
12.2
(54.0)
7.3
(45.1)
4.7
(40.5)
4.1
(39.4)
Average rainfall mm (inches)7.1
(0.28)
6.3
(0.25)
12.1
(0.48)
52.2
(2.06)
145.9
(5.74)
261.7
(10.30)
324.1
(12.76)
241.8
(9.52)
269.9
(10.63)
112.5
(4.43)
7.2
(0.28)
2.7
(0.11)
1,443.4
(56.83)
Average rainy days0.50.50.62.86.510.110.99.48.43.30.40.153.7
Average relative humidity (%) (at 17:30 IST)76706569737880818282818076
Source: India Meteorological Department [17] [18]

Demographics

Religion in Balurghat (2011)
Hinduism
98.74%
Islam
0.49%
Other or not stated
0.77%
Languages of Balurghat (2011) [19]
  1. Bengali (94.4%)
  2. Hindi (3.40%)
  3. Santali (1.37%)
  4. Others (0.82%)

Economics

Balurghat is a distribution centre in northern West Bengal. The main goods traded include rice, jute, sugar cane, fisheries and oilseeds. [22]

Transport

Railway

Sealdah Balurghat Express Sealdah Balurghat Express AC Economy.jpg
Sealdah Balurghat Express

Balurghat Railway Station is the terminus station of the Eklakhi–Balurghat branch line [23] Trains connecting Balurghat to Kolkata directly include Sealdah Balurghat express, Tebhaga Express and Howrah–Balurghat Bi-Weekly Express. Train services also connect Balurghat to Siliguri in the north through Balurghat-Siliguri Intercity Express. Balurghat is also connected to Malda through Balurghat-Malda Court Passenger Train. Besides, Balurghat-Nabadwip Dham Express connects Nabadwip with Balurghat.

Highways

Shyamoli Volvo Kolkata to Balurghat.jpg
Shyamoli Volvo Kolkata to Balurghat
NBSTC Bus stand Balurghat.jpg
NBSTC Bus stand Balurghat

Indian National Highway 512 passes through Balurghat (from Gazole To Hili).

At Balurghat, there is a Government bus and a separate private bus stand. The NBSTC(Major Service Provider),SBSTC(Limited Service Provider) and WBTC(Only between Kolkata & Balurghat) are the government bus service provides majority of bus rides to distant places. Many buses (both Government and private) run from Balurghat to Kolkata, Siliguri, Jalpaiguri, Coochbehar, Kalna, Durgapur, Malda, and Raiganj.

Airways

A helicopter landing at Balurghat Airport from Kolkata Airport Balurghat-airport-balurghat-dinajpur.jpg
A helicopter landing at Balurghat Airport from Kolkata Airport

Balurghat Airport is situated at the entrance of the town, at Mahinagar, although the airport is not operating right now due to construction and executive issues. A Kolkata-Malda-Balurghat-Coochbehar flight service has been planned for this airport. Previously, there was a Kolkata-Malda-Balurghat helicopter service for some years.

Education

Balurghat High School Independence Day Celebration BHS.jpg
Balurghat High School
Educational Institutions in Balurghat
CategoryInstitutions
Schools
Colleges
Universities

Festivals

Durga Puja is widely celebrated throughout the town. Major places to visit during festival are Avijatri Club, Kachikala Club, Srijoni Sangha, Newtown, Sanket Club and various others. The next big festival is Kali Puja which is also a major festival celebrated during Deepawali. Majour places are Milan Sangha Club, Balurghat College more, Yubashree Sangha and various others places. Some other festivals like Chhath Puja, Rath Yatra, Biswakarma Puja, Ganesh Chaturthi and Saraswati puja are widely celebrated at Balurghat. Bolla Kali Puja is celebrated at Bolla approximately 15 kilometres (9 miles) from Balurghat, in November each year, for which millions of devotees come to see the festival. Festivals of non-hindu religions are also celebrated i,e Christmas, Ramadaan, and Buddha Purnima.

Sports

Balurghat is also home to district's 1st ever stadium to host the top tier national level cricket match like a Ranji Trophy Match. [24] Balurghat Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium used for sports like cricket and football. A major cricket tournament called Bijay Kumar Saha Memorial T-20 Tournament [25] held annually at this stadium where various teams from West Bengal, India & even from Bangladesh participate. An indoor sports complex in Balurghat is also inaugurated in 2023 for various indoor sports activities like badminton, table tennis, marshal arts etc. The Police line playground is one of the major playground and has the best infrastructure after the main stadium which is used by both the West Bengal Police & general public. Some other major playgrounds are Balurghat College Playground (Uttamasaha), Balurghat High School Playgrounds, Netaji Sporting Club, Railway Station ground etc.

Healthcare

Notable people

See also

References

  1. 1 2 "Balurghat Municipality". sudawb.org. Retrieved 25 November 2020.
  2. 1 2 "Census of India: Balurghat". www.censusindia.gov.in. Retrieved 10 October 2019.
  3. 1 2 "Fact and Figures". Wb.gov.in. Retrieved 14 July 2019.
  4. "52nd Report of the Commissioner for Linguistic Minorities in India" (PDF). Nclm.nic.in. Ministry of Minority Affairs. p. 85. Archived from the original (PDF) on 25 May 2017. Retrieved 14 July 2019.
  5. Archaeological Survey of India (2020). Terracotta and Early Pottery in Bengal.
  6. P.C. Gupta (1985). History of Pundravardhana.
  7. Wakil Ahmed (2001). Islamic Architecture in Bengal.
  8. Dipesh Chakrabarty (1997). Partition and its Impact on Bengal Borderlands.
  9. West Bengal District Gazetteers (1980). Dakshin Dinajpur Gazetteer.
  10. N. Sengupta (2003). Education in Colonial and Post-Colonial Bengal.
  11. "Annual Development Report for Dakshin Dinajpur". Local Government of West Bengal. 2021.
  12. "Maps, Weather, and Airports for Balurghat, India".
  13. 1 2 "District Statistical Handbook 2014 Dakshin Dinajpur". Table 2.1. Department of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Government of West Bengal. Archived from the original on 21 January 2019. Retrieved 4 December 2018.
  14. 1 2 "Dakshin Dinajpur District Police". Know your PS. District Police. Archived from the original on 28 November 2017. Retrieved 4 December 2018.
  15. "District Census Handbook: Dakshin Dinajpur, Series 20 Part XII A" (PDF). Map of Dakshin Dinajpur with CD Block HQs and Police Stations (on the fourth page). Directorate of Census Operations, West Bengal, 2011. Retrieved 4 December 2018.
  16. "BDO Offices under Dakshin Dinajpur District". Department of Mass Education Extension & Library Services, Government of West Bengal. West Bengal Public Library Network. Archived from the original on 2 November 2018. Retrieved 4 December 2018.
  17. "Station: Balurghat Climatological Table 1991–2020" (PDF). Climatological Normals 1991–2020. India Meteorological Department. Archived from the original (PDF) on 8 April 2024. Retrieved 17 July 2024.
  18. "Extremes of Temperature & Rainfall for Indian Stations (Up to 2012)" (PDF). India Meteorological Department. December 2016. p. M230. Archived from the original (PDF) on 5 February 2020. Retrieved 10 January 2021.
  19. 1 2 "Table C-16 Population by Mother Tongue: West Bengal". www.censusindia.gov.in. Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India.
  20. 1 2 "C-1 Population By Religious Community". censusindia.gov.in. Retrieved 10 April 2021.
  21. "Urban Agglomerations/Cities having population 1 lakh and above" (PDF). Provisional Population Totals, Census of India 2011. Retrieved 21 October 2011.
  22. Balurghat, from Encyclopædia Britannica.
  23. "55721x->55421 Malda Town-Balurghat Passenger". Time Table. India Rail Info. Retrieved 30 November 2018.
  24. "Balurghat to host Ranji match for first time". www.telegraphindia.com. Retrieved 25 October 2020.
  25. "BIJAY KUMAR SAHA MEMORIAL T-20 CRICKET TOURNAMENT Balurghat".
  26. "Health & Family Welfare Department". Health Statistics. Government of West Bengal. Archived from the original on 28 October 2021. Retrieved 7 December 2018.