The Coal Capital of India-Dhanbad Jharkhand

Coal Capital of India- Dhanbad, Jharkhand:

The city often referred to as the "Coal Capital of India" is Dhanbad. It is located in the state of Jharkhand, in the eastern part of India. Dhanbad has a long history of coal mining and is known for its rich coal reserves. The city is home to several coal mines, including some of the largest coal mines in India, such as the Jharia coalfield. Coal mining has been a significant economic activity in Dhanbad for many decades, and the city plays a crucial role in India's coal industry.

Industries : 

Dhanbad is known for its rich mineral resources, particularly coal, which has been a major driver of its industrial development. The city is home to several industries, including:

1. Coal Mining: Dhanbad is often referred to as the "Coal Capital of India" due to its extensive coal reserves. Coal mining is a prominent industry in the region, and numerous coal mines operate in and around Dhanbad. These mines contribute significantly to India's coal production and provide employment opportunities to a large number of people.

2. Steel and Power: The availability of coal and proximity to iron ore deposits in nearby regions have attracted steel and power industries to Dhanbad. Several steel plants and power plants are located in and around the city, contributing to the local economy and employment.

3. Chemical and Fertilizer: Dhanbad has chemical and fertilizer industries that utilize coal and other raw materials for the production of chemicals, fertilizers, and related products. These industries cater to the agriculture and industrial sectors.

4. Refractory: Dhanbad is home to several refractory manufacturing units that produce refractory bricks, castables, and other materials used in high-temperature applications, such as steel-making, cement production, and glass manufacturing.

5. Manufacturing and Engineering: Dhanbad has a presence of manufacturing units and engineering industries, including machinery manufacturing, automotive components, electrical equipment, and other industrial products.

6. Education and Research: Dhanbad also serves as an educational and research hub, with institutions like the Indian School of Mines (now IIT Dhanbad) and the Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CIMFR). These institutions contribute to research and development activities and promote technological advancements in the mining and fuel sectors.

Educational Institutions :

Dhanbad is home to several educational institutes, including universities, colleges, and research institutions. Here are some prominent educational institutions in Dhanbad:

1. Indian School of Mines (ISM), Dhanbad: Established in 1926, ISM Dhanbad is one of the premier technical institutions in India. It offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in various fields of engineering, applied sciences, management, and humanities. ISM Dhanbad is now known as the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Dhanbad.

2. Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CIMFR): CIMFR is a constituent laboratory under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). It is dedicated to research and development in the fields of mining, mineral processing, and fuel technology. CIMFR conducts research, provides technical services, and offers training programs in these domains.

3. Birsa Institute of Technology (BIT) Sindri: Located near Dhanbad, BIT Sindri is a government engineering institute. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in engineering disciplines such as Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Civil, Metallurgy, Computer Science, and Electronics Engineering.

4. Patliputra Medical College and Hospital (PMCH): PMCH is a government medical college located in Dhanbad. It offers undergraduate medical courses (MBBS) and provides healthcare services through its associated hospital.

5. DAV Public School, Dhanbad: DAV Public School is a renowned educational institution affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). It provides quality education from kindergarten to high school.

6. Delhi Public School, Dhanbad: Delhi Public School is a popular school in Dhanbad, offering education from pre-primary to secondary levels. It follows the CBSE curriculum.

Rivers and lakes :

Dhanbad, located in the state of Jharkhand, India, is primarily known for its coal mining industry. While there are no major rivers or lakes within the city itself, there are a few water bodies in the surrounding regions. Here are some notable rivers and lakes near Dhanbad:

1. Damodar River: The Damodar River, also known as the "Sorrow of Bengal," flows near Dhanbad. It is one of the major rivers in the region and plays a significant role in the water supply, irrigation, and industrial activities in the area. The river has been dammed at several places, creating reservoirs like Panchet Dam and Maithon Dam.

2. Topchanchi Lake: Located around 37 kilometers from Dhanbad, Topchanchi Lake is a scenic artificial lake. It was created by damming the Topchanchi River and serves as a popular tourist spot. The lake is surrounded by lush green hills and offers boating facilities for visitors.

3. Barakar River: The Barakar River is a small river that flows through the outskirts of Dhanbad. It originates from the nearby Giridih district and eventually merges into the Damodar River. The Barakar River is not a significant water body, but it contributes to the overall drainage system in the area.

4. Jharia Coalfield Lakes: Within the Jharia coalfield region near Dhanbad, there are several small lakes that have formed due to mining activities. These lakes are often referred to as "Jharia Talab" and are mainly disused open-pit mines that have filled up with water over time. While not natural lakes, they have become a part of the local landscape.

Transports :

Dhanbad, being an important city in Jharkhand, has a well-developed transportation system that connects it to various parts of the country. Here are the primary modes of transportation in Dhanbad:

1. Roadways: Dhanbad has a well-connected road network that allows for easy travel within the city and to other nearby towns and cities. National Highway 19 (NH 19) passes through Dhanbad, connecting it to major cities like Kolkata, Asansol, and Ranchi. State-run buses, private buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws are the common modes of transportation for local and intercity travel.

2. Railways: Dhanbad is a major railway junction in India and has good rail connectivity with various parts of the country. The Dhanbad Railway Station, one of the busiest railway stations in Eastern India, is served by several express trains, superfast trains, and local passenger trains. It lies on the Grand Chord line and is an important junction on the Indian Railways network.

3. Airports: The nearest major airport to Dhanbad is the Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi, which is approximately 160 kilometers away. It has domestic flight connections to major cities in India. Another nearby airport is the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, which is around 260 kilometers away and offers both domestic and international flight connections.

4. Local Transport: Within Dhanbad, local transportation is primarily facilitated by auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and shared tempos (locally known as Vikrams). These modes of transport are commonly used for short-distance travel within the city and for commuting to nearby areas.

Tourist Location :

Here are some tourist locations in and around Dhanbad:

1. Maithon Dam: Located about 48 kilometers from Dhanbad, Maithon Dam is a popular tourist spot. It is built on the Barakar River and offers boating facilities in the reservoir. The surrounding landscape and the scenic beauty of the dam attract visitors.

2. Topchanchi Lake: Situated approximately 37 kilometers from Dhanbad, Topchanchi Lake is an artificial lake surrounded by picturesque hills. It is a serene spot for nature lovers and offers boating facilities.

3. Shakti Mandir: This temple dedicated to Goddess Kali is a significant religious site in Dhanbad. The temple complex is located on a hill, and visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from here.

4. Panchet Dam: Situated on the Damodar River, about 45 kilometers from Dhanbad, Panchet Dam is another popular attraction. It offers breathtaking views of the dam and the surrounding landscape. Boating and fishing are also possible in the reservoir.

5. Kalyaneshwari Temple: Located about 20 kilometers from Dhanbad, Kalyaneshwari Temple is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kalyaneshwari. It is situated in a scenic setting and attracts devotees throughout the year.

6. Bhatinda Falls: Situated around 60 kilometers from Dhanbad, Bhatinda Falls is a natural waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. It is a popular picnic spot and offers a refreshing getaway from the city.