Exploring the Best Developed Cities in East India Beyond Kolkata

East India is a region rich in history and culture, with more than just Kolkata to offer. Apart from the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, Kolkata is often thought of as the iconic city of the region. However, several other cities in the eastern part of the country are rapidly developing and showcasing impressive infrastructure, innovation, and growth. In this article, we will explore some of the best developed cities in East India beyond Kolkata, focusing on Bhubaneswar, Guwahati, and Patna.

Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar stands out as one of the most well-developed cities in East India. It is the capital of the state of Odisha and has gained recognition for its modern infrastructure, urban planning, and rapid economic growth. The city is famous for its robust IT sector, numerous educational institutions, and significant investments in urban development. Bhubaneswar is often referred to as the Temple City of India due to its rich heritage and numerous ancient temples. Its strategic location and well-connected transportation network make it an essential hub for tourists and business travelers alike. The city is well-connected with other major cities in India via railways and air, further enhancing its position as a key economic center.

Guwahati

Guwahati is the largest city in Assam and serves as a major commercial and educational hub in the northeastern region of India. It has seen significant growth in recent years, both in terms of infrastructure and connectivity. The city is known for its scenic beauty, with the Brahmaputra River flowing through it, creating a natural wonderland. Guwahati has a strong focus on economic development, particularly in sectors such as IT, bioinformatics, and pharmaceuticals. The city also hosts several renowned educational institutions, contributing to its academic prestige. However, while Guwahati has made impressive strides, it still faces challenges in terms of cleanliness and living standards.

Patna

Patna, the capital of Bihar, offers another strong contender for the title of a well-developed city in East India. Despite its lower production output compared to other cities like Bhubaneswar, Patna excels in terms of infrastructure, cleanliness, and living standards. The city is known for its administrative and commercial importance and has numerous institutions that contribute to its development. In recent years, Patna has undergone significant urban planning and development, making it a more livable and modern city. However, it still lacks some of the advanced amenities found in metros like Bhubaneswar and Guwahati.

Comparative Analysis

When considering the criteria for development, including good hotels, airports, communication facilities, and other essential parameters, several cities in East India stand out. Bhubaneswar, for example, leads the pack in well-planned infrastructure and development. Kalyani, a planned city near Kolkata, is also a noteworthy contender. Established by Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, Kalyani has the potential to become a major educational and medical hub within the decade, with facilities such as the AIIMS Kolkata and IISER Kolkata. Additionally, Siliguri in North Bengal, Patna, and the cities of Jamshedpur, Ranchi, and Dhanbad also demonstrate strong development, though they face ongoing challenges and require further development.

It is important to note that the definition of well-developed can vary based on different factors. While some cities may excel in infrastructure and modernity, others may be stronger in terms of heritage, culture, or economic output. Each city in East India has its unique strengths that contribute to its overall development and distinct position within the region.

Keywords: Bhubaneswar, Guwahati, Patna, Odisha, Assam, Bihar, development, infrastructure, urban planning, heritage, economic growth, connectivity, cleanliness, living standards.

Further Reading: For more information on the development dynamics in East India, you can explore articles and reports on urban planning, economic growth, and infrastructure development in these cities.