Balurghat
Balurghat | |
|---|---|
City | |
| Coordinates: 25°13′N 88°46′E / 25.22°N 88.76°E | |
| Country | India |
| State | West Bengal |
| Division | Malda division |
| District | Dakshin Dinajpur |
| Subdivision | Balurghat subdivision |
| Government | |
| • Type | Municipality |
| • Body | Balurghat Municipality |
| • Chairman | Ashok Kumar Mitra (TMC) |
| • Legislature | Members |
| • Executive | |
| • Judiciary | |
| Area | |
• Total | 10.76 km2 (4.15 sq mi) |
| Elevation | 24 m (79 ft) |
| Population (2011) | |
• Total | 151,416 |
| • Density | 14,000/km2 (36,000/sq mi) |
| • City Rank | 20th in West Bengal |
| Languages | |
| • Official | Bengali |
| • Additional official | English |
| Time zone | UTC+5:30 (IST) |
| PIN | 733101 |
| Telephone code | 03522 |
| 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.