Birati

Birati
Neighbourhood
Manik Bandhopadhyay Setu (Birati Flyover)
Coordinates: 22°39′51″N88°25′42″E / 22.6643°N 88.4283°E / 22.6643; 88.4283
Country	India
State	West Bengal
Division	Presidency
District	North 24 Parganas
Named for	Bengali word "Biroti"
Government
• Type	Municipality
• Body	North Dumdum Municipality
Languages
• Official	Bengali, English
Time zone	UTC+5:30 (IST)
PIN	700051
Telephone code	+91 33
Vehicle registration	WB
Lok Sabha constituency	Dum Dum
Vidhan Sabha constituency	Dum Dum Uttar
Climate	Tropical (Köppen)

Birati is a neighbourhood in North Dumdum of North 24 Parganas district in the state of West Bengal, India. It is a part of the area covered by Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA). ^[1]

The area is close to the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport. Located in North Dumdum, Birati is a locality that combines historical significance with modern amenities, making it a distinctive enclave within the metropolitan area. Characterized by its bustling streets, rich cultural heritage, traditional Bengali festivals, and bustling markets, Birati offers residents a balanced lifestyle that blends urban conveniences with suburban tranquillity. Over the years, Birati has evolved from a rural settlement into a vibrant residential and commercial hub, reflecting the dynamic growth of Kolkata. Its proximity to the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport and major transportation routes further enhances its appeal as a strategic location for both residential and commercial activities.

As Kolkata's population grows due to migration, neighbourhoods like Birati play a crucial role in balancing population density. Its strategic location and connectivity, including key routes like MB Road, NH 12 (Jessore Road), Kalyani Expressway, and NH 34 (Belghoria Expressway), ensure that residents can easily access their destinations within Kolkata. This accessibility, combined with its vibrant community life, makes Birati an attractive and convenient choice for both locals and newcomers alike.

History

Historical background and origin

Birati, formerly known as "Biroti", derives its name from the Bengali word, meaning "taking a break".^{[ citation needed ]} The area has a rich historical legacy dating back to ancient times. The Nimta-Birati region was a prominent Janapada during the era of Laksmikanta Roy Choudhury . After his demise in 1649, Birati became the capital of Laksmikanta's jagir and served as the administrative headquarters until 1716, when the capital was relocated to Barisha.^{[ citation needed ]}

Today, Birati still retains its historical significance as the ancestral home of the Sabarna Roy Choudhury family, one of the oldest zamindar families in Bengal. In ancient India, Birati used to be a part of Greater 24 parganas which were then under the Satgaon (ancient Saptagram, now in Hoogly district) administration during the Mughal era and later it was included in Hoogly chakla (district under post-Mughal Nawabi rule) during the rule of Murshid Quli Khan. In 1757, after the Battle of Plassey, Nawab Mir Jafar confer the Zamindari of 24 parganas and janglimahals (small administrative units) to the British East India Company. These were Amirpur, Akbarpur, Balia, Birati, Azimabad, Basandhari, Baridhati, Bagjola, Kalikata, Garh, Hatiagarh, Islampur, Dakshin Sagar, Kharijuri, Khaspur, Ikhtiarpur, Madhyamgram, Magura, Medanmalla, Maida, Manpur, Muragachha, Pechakuli, Paikan, Rajarhat, Shahpur, Shahnagar, Satal and Uttar Pargana. Since then, this entire territory is known as Twenty four Parganas. ^[2]

British colonial rule

The Battle of Plassey in 1757 was a pivotal moment that marked the beginning of British colonial rule in India. It was fought between the forces of the British East India Company, led by Robert Clive, and the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daulah. Despite being vastly outnumbered, the British East India Company emerged victorious due to political intrigue and betrayal, rather than military prowess.^{[ citation needed ]}

The aftermath of the Battle of Plassey saw significant changes in the political landscape of India. The British East India Company was granted the zamindari rights of the 24 Parganas, including Birati, by Nawab Mir Jafar. This marked the formal beginning of British colonial rule in the region, with the British East India Company assuming control over governance, administration, and economic activities.

Under British colonial rule, India underwent profound transformations and extreme exploitation. The British introduced a new administrative framework, replacing traditional governance structures with bureaucratic systems. They implemented economic policies that prioritized British interests, leading to the exploitation of India's resources and wealth. Socially, the British colonial rule brought about cultural changes, education reforms, and the introduction of English as the administrative and educational language.^{[ citation needed ]}

Modern development

Over the years, Birati has evolved from a rural settlement into a bustling locality, reflecting the dynamic growth and development of Kolkata's outskirts. Birati has a very became very densely populated for the past few years, and has many urban residential complexes and apartments.^{[ citation needed ]}

Geography

Neighbouring areas

Birati is located in the northern suburbs of Kolkata Metropolitan Area. In the north, Birati is bounded by New Barrackpore and Chandpur. In the south, it is bounded by Belghoria Expressway(NH 12), with Durganagar being situated in the south. In the east, it is bounded by Jessore Road(NH 34), with Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport being in the east. In the west of Birati, it is bound by Kalyani Expressway, and has Nimta situated in the west. Here's the same thing in more simplified way:

North of Birati

• Neighbouring Areas: New Barrackpore, Chandpur
• Road Boundary: None

South of Birati

• Neighbouring Areas: Durganagar
• Road Boundary: Belghoria Expressway

East of Birati

• Neighbouring Areas: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport
• Road Boundary: Jessore Road

West of Birati

• Neighbouring Areas: Nimta
• Road Boundary(Partial): Kalyani Expressway

Weather and climate

The climate of Birati is tropical, characterized by hot and humid summers, mild winters, and a distinct monsoon season. Birati experiences a typical tropical climate, with distinct seasonal variations throughout the year. Overall, Birati's climate is influenced by its geographical location in the Gangetic plains and its proximity to the Bay of Bengal.

Since 2020, Birati and other parts of West Bengal and even India are experiencing a rise in temperature. Due to this the climate might not have changed but the temperatures are rising year-by-year due to Global Warming.

The Historical Daily High Temperature of Kolkata(because there is no difference between the temperatures of Kolkata & Birati) is 36 °C & the Historical Daily Low of Kolkata is 26 °C. These can be considered as an example of Birati's climate, but the temperatures have changed a lot. To study the weather of Kolkata's Historical Weather in detail, use Microsoft Weather.

Summer

• The summer season in Birati, stretches from the end of March to July. During the summer months, Birati sees high temperatures with temperatures daily exceeding 40 °C. And the lowest being only around 30 °C. Humidity levels are high, making the weather feel even hotter. During the summer season (from 2022) Heatwaves have become very common.

Monsoon

• The monsoon or rainy season in Birati, stretches from the August to October. The monsoon season in Birati brings heavy rainfall, providing relief from the scorching heat of summer. The area receives significant rainfall during these months, which helps maintain the lush greenery of the region. However, occasional flooding and waterlogging can occur due to the heavy downpours.

Winter

• The winter season in Birati, stretches from the November to February. Winter in Birati is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10 °C to 25 °C. The weather is relatively dry and comfortable, making it an ideal time to visit or engage in outdoor activities.

Education

Colleges and Schools situated in or in the outskirts of Birati and Nimta include:

• Mrinalini Dutta Mahavidyapith
• Birati High School (H.S)
• Birati Mahajati Vidyamandir (H.S)
• Birati Mahajati Balika Vidyamandir (H.S)
• Birati Vidyalay for Girls (H.S)
• Uttar Dum Dum Vidyapith for Boys (H.S) and Uttar Dum Dum Vidyapith for Girls (H.S)
• St. Stephen's School, Birati

Notable people

• Ratan Lal Basu, economist, fiction author in English, Indologist and specialist in Yoga and Tantra cult, born at Belakoba, Jalpaiguri district, now resides at Birati.

Transport

Banik More, Madhusudan Banerjee Rd

Madhusudan Banerjee Road
(M.B. Road), Birati More

Tarun Sengupta Smriti Bhavan
(near North Dumdum Municipality)

Madhusudan Banerjee Road
(M.B Road), Birati

With a well-developed public transit system, including buses and trains, commuting within and outside Birati is convenient and efficient. Additionally, the presence of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport helps a lot. Whether it's by bus, train, car, or bike, Birati offers a range of transportation options to suit the diverse needs of its residents.

Road transport

Road transportation in Birati is anchored by major highways like NH 12, providing crucial links to neighboring areas. Local roads are well-maintained to cater to both residential and commercial traffic. Traffic regulations ensure safe and orderly movement, with public transportation options like buses and taxis offering convenient connectivity. Dedicated lanes for cyclists and pedestrians also enhance road safety and promote eco-friendly commuting.

Public transit

Public transit in Birati includes buses and trains, offering convenient routes and schedules for residents and visitors. The bus network provides local connectivity, while auto and Rickshaw offer faster travel to neighbourhoods and landmarks within Birati. Affordable ticketing options and complementing taxi services make public transit a popular choice for commuting in Birati.

Buses

Even though bus travel exists within Birati, but it is better to use Auto Rickshaws & E-Rickshaws. But the But travel offers better experience while travelling from Birati to other places that are out of Birati. In this cases, Bus travel is the best.

• Routes: For the routes, the only way and the best way is to physically contact with the Bus Conductors or the locals for the route.
• Bus Stands: Birati has several Bus Stops like, 237 Bus Stand, B.B.D. Bag, Mini Bus Stand, etcetera.
• Ticketing Information: For the ticketing information, the only way it to ask the Bus Conductor physically.

Taxis

Even though Taxi travel exists in Birati but it is rarely used and is rare. Additionally, they are mainly used for travelling outside Birati. If somebody wants to travel outside of Birati, they can book Taxi online through apps like, Uber, OLA, etcetera.

• Availability: Birati has no specific Taxi service, but people can book Taxi online and make them available based on their needs.
• Taxi stands: There are two Taxi stands in Birati primarily. One in the west end of the flyover, near Panchasheel complex and the other is in the east side of the flyover in Vivekananda More (formerly banik more).People can also avail the service anytime by booking Taxi online.
• Fare: The fare completely depends on the Taxi driver, distance driven and other factors. Simply, there's no specific fare structure.

Rickshaws

Rickshaws include Totos, Autos and e-rickshaws. These are one of the most popular modes of transport within Birati.

• E-rickshaw Stand: Anyone can avail the service anywhere in Birati, as it is located almost everywhere.
• Auto Stand: This service is mostly, specifically located under the Manik Bandopadhyay Setu near the BiratI Railway Station.
• Toto Stand: This service is a little rare in Birati. But this service is similar to E-rickshaw service in Birati.
• Fare: The fare depends on the distance travelled and is said by the Rickshaw rider.

Road connectivity

Road connectivity in Birati is anchored by several key routes, including the bustling MB Road and the well-known NH 12, also known as Jessore Road. These roads serve as vital arteries, connecting Birati to neighboring areas and major cities, facilitating efficient travel for both residents and visitors. The Kalyani Expressway and NH 34, often referred to as Belghoria Expressway, further enhance connectivity, offering faster routes to different parts of the region. These well-maintained roads, coupled with public transportation options like buses and taxis, ensure seamless connectivity within Birati and to surrounding regions.

Major highways

Kolkata-Siliguri highway passes through Birati. Birati also has the 237 Bus Stand and Birati Mini Bus services which go to Babughat and B.B.D Bag respectively. ^[3] It is also connected to Kalyani Expressway, which is accessible through the M.B. Road. It is also surrounded by Jessore Road(NH 34) and Belghoria Expressway(NH 12).

It also features a railway station. Its closeness to Dum Dum also adds the Kolkata Metro as a way of conveyance. Madhusudan Banerjee Road (commonly known as M.B. Road) connects Birati with Belgharia. Birati is adjacent to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport. North Dumdum Municipality headquarters is situated near Birati Railway Station.

Local roads

Road Network

• Major Highways
  • NH 12
  • Access to other major cities
• Local Roads
  • Residential streets
  • Commercial areas

Air transport

• Air Travel
  • Airports
    • Nearby domestic and international airports
    • Airport facilities and services

Birati is close to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport. ^[3]

Roadways

Kolkata-Siliguri highway passes through Birati. Birati also has the 237 Bus Stand and Birati Mini Bus services which go to Babughat and B.B.D Bag respectively. ^[3] It is also connected to Kalyani Expressway, which is accessible through the M.B. Road. It is also surrounded by Jessore Road(NH 34) and Belghoria Expressway(NH 12).

It also features a railway station. Its closeness to Dum Dum also adds the Kolkata Metro as a way of conveyance. Madhusudan Banerjee Road (commonly known as M.B. Road) connects Birati with Belgharia. Birati is adjacent to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport. North Dumdum Municipality headquarters is situated near Birati Railway Station.

Railways

Birati railway station on the Sealdah–Bangaon line serves the area. Birati will soon be connected with the Noapara-Barasat Line (Line 4) of Kolkata Metro. The metro station will be underneath Jessore Road at Birati More (the point where M.B. Road meets Jessore Road).

Demographics

Kolkata Urban Agglomeration

The following Municipalities, Census Towns and other locations in Barrackpore subdivision were part of Kolkata Urban Agglomeration in the 2011 census: Kanchrapara (M), Jetia (CT), Halisahar (M), Balibhara (CT), Naihati (M), Bhatpara (M), Kaugachhi (CT), Garshyamnagar (CT), Garulia (M), Ichhapur Defence Estate (CT), North Barrackpur (M), Barrackpur Cantonment (CB), Barrackpore (M), Jafarpur (CT), Ruiya (CT), Titagarh (M), Khardaha (M), Bandipur (CT), Panihati (M), Muragachha (CT) New Barrackpore (M), Chandpur (CT), Talbandha (CT), Patulia (CT), Kamarhati (M), Baranagar (M), South Dumdum (M), North Dumdum (M), Dum Dum (M), Noapara (CT), Babanpur (CT), Teghari (CT), Nanna (OG), Chakla (OG), Srotribati (OG) and Panpur (OG). ^[4]

References

1. "Base Map of Kolkata Metropolitan area". Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority. Archived from the original on 28 September 2007. Retrieved 3 September 2007.
2. "History | NORTH 24 PARGANAS DISTRICT". north24parganas.gov.in. Retrieved 23 April 2024.
3. Chaudhuri, Moumita (21 February 2021). "The Calcutta-Siliguri highway is a track everybody loves to take but nobody ever made". the Telegraph. Retrieved 25 March 2022.
4. "Provisional Population Totals, Census of India 2011" (PDF). Constituents of Urban Agglomeration Having Population Above 1 Lakh. Census of India 2011. Retrieved 18 September 2024.

External links

• Kolkata/Northern fringes travel guide from Wikivoyage