Introduction
Bilaspur district, located in the Chhattisgarh state of India, is a region steeped in history, culture, and economic significance. Its eponymous headquarters, Bilaspur city, is not only a bustling urban center but also serves as the judicial and cultural capital of Chhattisgarh. In this article, we will delve into the district’s etymology, geography, historical legacy, administration, economy, demographics, languages, and tourism.
Etymology
The district gets its name from Bilaspur city, the administrative heart of the region. According to legend, Bilaspur is named after Bilasa Devi, a fisherwoman who is said to have founded the city.
Geography
Bilaspur district is situated between 21°47′ and 23°8′ north latitudes and 81°14′ and 83°15′ east longitudes. It shares its borders with Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi district to the north, Madhya Pradesh’s Anuppur and Dindori districts to the west, Kabirdham to the southwest, Durg and Raipur to the south, and Korba and Janjgir-Champa to the east. The district spans an area of 6,377 square kilometers.
The district’s geography includes plains, hills, and rivers. The presence of the Arpa River, although shallow, can cause flooding during the monsoon season. Bilaspur is known for its cultural significance and is also an important educational and medical hub of Chhattisgarh, boasting world-class institutions and healthcare facilities.
History
Bilaspur’s historical roots can be traced back to the reign of the Bhonsla Rajas of Nagpur, who controlled the area until 1818. During this period, the region was governed by a Maratha Subah (district officer). However, in 1818, the British began administering the area on behalf of Raghuji III, who was a minor ruler at the time.
In 1853, after the death of Raghuji III, the British annexed the Nagpur Kingdom to British India, forming Nagpur Province. Subsequently, in 1861, when the new Central Provinces were created, Bilaspur was organized into a separate district. The district saw changes in its boundaries over the years, with parts being transferred to other districts like Raipur and Durg.
On May 25, 1998, the original Bilaspur District was divided into three smaller districts: Bilaspur, Korba, and Janjgir-Champa.
Administration
Bilaspur District is a part of the Bilaspur Division, which consists of seven districts:Bilaspur
Korba
Raigarh
Janjgir-Champa
Mungeli
Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi
Sakti
The district is further divided into 11 tehsils, which include one Municipal corporation, three Nagar Palika Parishads, seven Nagar panchayats, and four blocks. Bilaspur District encompasses 708 villages, organized into 483 Gram Panchayats.
The district’s headquarters is Bilaspur, and it is renowned for being the judicial capital of Chhattisgarh.
Economy
Bilaspur is a key economic center in Chhattisgarh. It is home to the headquarters of South Eastern Coalfields, the largest and most profitable subsidiary of Coal India. Additionally, the district boasts the largest number of cement factories in the state, including manufacturers like Lafarge, Century, and ACC.
Bilaspur’s railway zone has consistently received recognition as the most profitable railway zone by the Ministry of Indian Railways. The city is well-connected to the rest of the country through a robust road and rail network. It lies on the Mumbai-Kolkata rail route, making it a pivotal railway junction.
The city’s main commercial areas include Vyapar Vihar, Telipara, Link Road, Sepath Road, Bus Stand Road, Rajiv Plaza, and Goal Bazar. Bilaspur is also the Regional Headquarters of Chhattisgarh State Electricity Board, serving as the jurisdiction for supplying electricity to Bilaspur, Korba, Janjgir-Champa, and Raigarh Districts.
Business Travel and Hotels
Due to its industrial significance, Bilaspur attracts a substantial number of business travelers from various parts of India and abroad. The city has several hotels to accommodate these visitors. Notably, the international brand hotel ‘Courtyard by Marriott’ opened in April 2014, providing high-quality accommodation. Apart from international chains, there are several locally-run hotels in Bilaspur, offering more affordable options for travelers.
Transport
By Air: The nearest airport is Bilasa Devi Kevat Airport, located approximately 13 kilometers from Nehru Chok.
By Railway: Bilaspur is home to the zonal office of South East Central Railway, the 16th zone of Indian Railways. It is well-connected to other parts of the country via an extensive rail network. Bilaspur railway station is a crucial junction, serving as the starting point for numerous trains.
By Road: Bilaspur is the second-largest city in Chhattisgarh and is connected by bus services to other major districts within the state and neighboring states like Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Odisha. The city has been working on improving its public transportation system with the introduction of world-class City Bus services.
Demographics
Religions in Bilaspur district, as of the 2011 census, were predominantly Hindu, with 94.94% of the population adhering to Hinduism. Other religions represented in the district include Islam (2.77%), Christianity (0.95%), and tribal religions (0.49%). Approximately 0.85% either follow other religions or did not state their religion.
The district’s total population was 2,663,629 in 2011, making it one of the most populous districts in Chhattisgarh. It has a population density of 322 inhabitants per square kilometer and experienced a growth rate of 33.21% between 2001 and 2011. The sex ratio is 972 females for every 1000 males, and the literacy rate stands at 71.59%.
Languages
At the time of the 2011 Census of India, the primary language spoken in Bilaspur district was Chhattisgarhi (79.46%), followed by Hindi (15.03%) and Sindhi (1.06%). Other languages accounted for 4.45% of the population’s linguistic diversity.
Tourism
Bilaspur district is not just about its economic significance; it also offers natural and cultural attractions. A notable tourist spot in the district is the Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary, where visitors can explore the region’s rich biodiversity.
Conclusion
Bilaspur district stands as a dynamic region in Chhattisgarh, where history, culture, and economic development converge. From its historical legacy dating back to the Bhonsla Rajas to its present-day role as an industrial and cultural hub, Bilaspur offers a unique blend of tradition and progress. As it continues to grow and evolve, Bilaspur remains a significant contributor to the state’s growth and development.
