- The physiography of Bengal, encompassing both West Bengal in India and Bangladesh, is characterized by its diverse landscapes, influenced by the major river systems, climatic conditions, and geological formations. Here are the key features:
- Geographical Factors of West Bengal
- West Bengal’s geographical characteristics play a pivotal role in shaping its diverse landscape and environment. Situated in the eastern part of India, the state shares borders with several neighboring regions, influencing its climate, topography, and natural resources.
- These geographical factors contribute significantly to the state’s cultural, economic, and ecological diversity, making West Bengal a region of great geographical significance in the country.
- Area
- West Bengal spans from the Himalayan range in the north to the Bay of Bengal in the south, featuring diverse geographical features.
- Known for its rustic natural beauty, West Bengal attracts tourists consistently.
- The total land area of the state covers 88,752 sq km.
- As per the 2001 census, the population of West Bengal was 8,02,21,171.
- Situated in the eastern part of India, West Bengal shares its eastern border with Bangladesh, while Sikkim and Bhutan are to the north, and Assam to the northeast.
- West Bengal’s geographical coordinates are approximately 23 degrees North latitude and 88 degrees East longitude.
- The state’s geography can be categorized into distinct physiographic regions, including the Terai region in the foothills of the Himalayas, known for tea plantations, and the fertile plains formed by the Ganges River, with the Hoogly River flowing through Kolkata.
- The Sunderbans, a delta region, is a notable tourist destination in West Bengal.
- The state has both urban and rural populations, with approximately 70% residing in rural areas.
- The majority of the population in West Bengal is Bengali, although there is considerable population diversity within the state.
- Biodiversity
- The geography of West Bengal has its biodiversity with variety of living organisms, including plant and animal species, and the ecosystems they form. Conservation of natural resources and ecosystems is essential, leading to the establishment of the West Bengal Biodiversity Board under the state’s Department of Environment.
- West Bengal is surrounded by land on three sides and the Bay of Bengal to the south. It shares borders with Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan, Assam, Bangladesh, Jharkhand, and Bihar. The northern part touches the Himalayan range, known for popular hill stations and a cold climate year-round. The Terai region in the foothills is famous for tea plantations.
- Moving south, the topography changes as it enters the Indo-Gangetic plain. The Ganges River and its distributary, the Hoogly River, flow through this fertile region. The Hoogly flows predominantly through Kolkata, supporting agriculture due to rich alluvial soil.
- Further south lies the deltaic plain of the Sunderbans, a significant tourist attraction where the Ganges and its distributaries meet. This region is characterized by mangrove vegetation.
- West Bengal is located in the eastern part of India, primarily a riverine plain with the northern border touching the Himalayan foothills. Its tropical climate is influenced by this location, with coordinates at 23 degrees North latitude and 88 degrees East longitude.
- The state’s favorable location allows accessibility via roadways, railways, and airways. Tourists are drawn to the northern hill stations and the southern Sunderbans. The state’s location also supports agriculture, particularly the cultivation of paddy and other food crops
- Flora
- Flora in West Bengal refers to the variety of plant species found in the state, which is rich and diverse due to its favorable location, ample rainfall, and varied climate.
- The state’s flora is categorized based on its physiographic regions, each having distinct vegetation types.
- In the northern part of West Bengal, which includes mountainous terrain, there are temperate and tropical forests. The plateau region is characterized by deciduous forests, and the Sunderban area features mangrove forests.
- Tropical evergreen forests are found at altitudes below 1000 meters, while sub-tropical trees like Cedrela, various Laurel species, and Bamboo thrive at higher altitudes (above 1000 meters). Temperate forests include Conifer, Oak, and
- Rhododendron trees, but some areas have been cleared for tea plantations.
- In hilly regions, important trees include Birch, Beech, and Deodars. Orchids and moss flourish on moist slopes, while small bushes and flowering plants grow at higher altitudes.
- The foothills of the Himalayas host protected forest covers, mainly consisting of moist deciduous vegetation, with Sal being a prominent tree species. These forests often have shrubs and dense undergrowth.
- The Sunderban region, distinct from higher altitudes, features trees like Sundari and Garan, making up the mangrove forest.
- Relief and Drainage
- The geography of West Bengal can be divided into two primary natural regions: the Gangetic Plain in the south and the sub-Himalayan and Himalayan area in the north.
- The Gangetic Plain features fertile alluvial soil deposited by the Ganges River and its tributaries, along with marshes and shallow lakes formed by old river courses.
- The Ganges River has been gradually shifting eastward over centuries, with most of its water now flowing through the Hugli (Hooghly) river in the state. Kolkata, the state capital, is located on the Hugli in the southern part of West Bengal. The Damodar River joins the Hugli to the southwest of Kolkata.
- The elevation of the plain increases gradually towards the west, particularly near the Chota Nagpur plateau in Jharkhand.
- The sub-Himalayan tract, known as the West Bengal Duars or Western Duars, lies between the Himalayas and the plain. It was once plagued by malaria but has since been drained and cultivated, hosting some of India’s finest tea plantations.
- North of the Duars, the Himalayan mountain ranges rise abruptly along the state’s northern border. Notably, Mount Kanchenjunga, although technically in Sikkim, dominates the landscape, especially in Darjeeling. On clear days, Mount Everest can also be seen in the distance.
- Climate
- West Bengal’s climate transitions from tropical wet-dry in the south to humid subtropical in the north.
- There is a significant seasonal variation in rainfall across the state. For instance, Kolkata receives an annual average of 64 inches (1,625 mm) of rainfall, with the highest amount, around 13 inches (330 mm), in August and less than 1 inch (25 mm) in December.
- The state experiences notable year-to-year variability in its climate.
- The geography of West Bengal also involves the sub-Himalayan region where rainfall is substantially higher.
- The year in West Bengal can be categorized into three distinct seasons:
- Hot and dry season (March to early June) characterized by dry, sultry days and frequent thunderstorms.
- Hot and wet season (mid-June to September) when monsoon winds bring rain from the southwest.
- Cold (cool) season (October to February) marked by dry and clear days with stable atmospheric conditions.
- Average high temperatures in Kolkata range from around 80 °F (27 °C) in December and January to nearly 100 °F (38 °C) in April and May.
- Fauna
- West Bengal’s forests are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the majestic yet endangered Bengal tiger, leopards, elephants, gaurs (wild cattle), and rhinoceroses.
- The region also hosts various other animals commonly found on the Indian subcontinent, both large and small.
- Reptiles and birds in West Bengal encompass species that are typical of the broader Indian subcontinent.
- Apart from the Sundarbans park, the state boasts several other protected natural areas, such as the Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary and a tiger reserve.
1. River Systems
West Bengal, a state known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, is uniquely defined by its intricate network of rivers.
From the sacred Ganges that gracefully winds through the plains to the powerful Teesta originating from the Himalayas, these rivers are more than mere geographical features.
They are the lifelines of the state, nourishing its agriculture, powering its industries, facilitating transportation, and even shaping religious practices.
In this article, we will embark on a journey to explore the rivers of West Bengal, delving into their origins, tributaries, significance, and the challenges they face, offering an insight into their integral role in the socio-economic fabric of the region.
There’s an undeniable charm attached to the rivers of West Bengal, an eastern Indian state renowned for its prolific art and culture. Acting as life-churning arteries, the rivers are more than just water bodies.
If you’re preparing for a government exam and want to amplify your knowledge about this topic, let’s dive into the captivating world of West Bengal’s vast river system.
Prominent Rivers of West Bengal
- Ganges (Ganga):
The Ganges, India’s longest river and a symbol of transcendental purity, enters West Bengal near the Farakka Barrage. Once it enters the state, it splits into the Bhagirathi-Hooghly and the Padma River.
- This mighty river is indispensable to the state’s agriculture as the fertile lands surrounding it support the cultivation of various crops, including the prominent rice and jute.
- The Hooghly River, a significant distributary of the Ganges, flows through essential urban conglomerations such as Howrah and Kolkata.
- Known widely as the lifeline of these cities, Hooghly has been instrumental in shaping their socio-cultural evolution over the centuries.
- Be it the iconic Howrah Bridge that adorns it or the numerous ghats along its banks, the river is a symbol of heritage and continuity.
- Brahmaputra:
The majestic Brahmaputra enters West Bengal from Bangladesh, carrying with it the unique Deltaic character of the neighboring country.
- The Brahmaputra, though covering only a small portion of West Bengal, significantly influences the Lower Deltaic region of Bengal.
- It provides vital soil nutrients that contribute heavily to the region’s agricultural success.
- Known as Jamuna in Bangladesh, the Brahmaputra River coalesces with the Ganges and Meghna River before spilling into the Bay of Bengal, forming the Sunderban delta, the largest mangrove forest in the world.
- The river’s socio-economic significance cannot be overstated, as its fertile delta region supports a robust fishing community and promotes eco-tourism through the Sunderban National Park.
- Teesta River:
Emerging from the mystical Himalayas, the Teesta River casts a lifegiving path down to the plains before meeting the Brahmaputra River in Bangladesh.
- The river is known for its breathtaking beauty, flanked by lush green landscapes and picturesque terrains, making it a significant attraction for tourists.
- Apart from its scenic allure, the Teesta River is a powerhouse of utilities.
- It is home to several hydroelectric projects contributing significantly to the region’s energy needs.
- It also provides irrigation to vast agricultural lands, fortifying West Bengal’s agrarian economy.
- Mahananda River:
The Mahananda River, originating from the Himalayas, is a crucial water source for the inhabitants of North Bengal.
- It carves its way through important districts of West Bengal, including Darjeeling and Malda, catering to the region’s water needs.
- The Mahananda River also flows through the verdant Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, fostering a rich and diverse ecosystem.
- The river’s protection and conservation are of paramount importance to uphold the ecological balance of the region and nurture the wide array of wildlife species residing in the sanctuary.
- Damodar River:
Historically named the ‘sorrow of Bengal’ due to its frequent, devastating floods, Damodar river finds its origins near Chandwa in Jharkhand.
- Numerous dams have been built on the river under the Damodar Valley Corporation to control flooding, supply water for irrigation and generate hydroelectricity.
- Even though the Damodar Valley is a mineral-rich region, the Damodar River is often referred to as the ‘Ruhr of India’.
- It provides the necessary water resources to support the industrial belt in the area, ranging from manufacturing and production industries to thermal power plants, significantly contributing to West Bengal’s economic growth.
West Bengal Religion wise Population 2024
Hinduism is majority religion in state of West Bengal with 70.54 % followers. Islam is second most popular religion in state of West Bengal with approximately 27.01 % following it.
In West Bengal state, Christinity is followed by 0.72 %, Jainism by 0.07 %, Sikhism by 0.07 % and Buddhism by 0.07 %. Around 1.03 % stated ‘Other Religion’, approximately 0.25 % stated ‘No Particular Religion’.
| Description | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Hindu | 70.54 % |
| Muslim | 27.01 % |
| Other religion | 1.03 % |
| Christian | 0.72 % |
West Bengal Population Data
| Description | 2011 | 2001 |
|---|---|---|
| Approximate Population | 9.13 Crores | 8.02 Crore |
| Actual Population | 91,276,115 | 80,176,197 |
| Male | 46,809,027 | 41,465,985 |
| Female | 44,467,088 | 38,710,212 |
| Population Growth | 13.84% | 17.84% |
| Percantage of total Population | 7.54% | 7.79% |
| Sex Ratio | 950 | 934 |
| Child Sex Ratio | 956 | 960 |
| Density/km2 | 1,028 | 903 |
| Area(Km 2) | 88,752 | 88,752 |
| Total Child Population (0-6 Age) | 10,581,466 | 11,414,222 |
| Literacy | 76.26 % | 68.64 % |
| Male Literacy | 81.69 % | 77.02 % |
| Female Literacy | 70.54 % | 59.61 % |
West Bengal Urban Population
Out of total population of West Bengal, 31.87% people live in urban regions.
The urban population of West Bengal increased by 29.72 percent during 2001-2011 period and is expected to rise further. Sex Ratio in urban regions of West Bengal was 944 females per 1000 males. Average Literacy rate in West Bengal for Urban regions was 84.78 percent.
West Bengal Rural Population
Of the total population of West Bengal state, around 68.13 percent live in the villages of rural areas.
The population growth rate in West Bengal for rural populatation recorded for this decade (2001-2011) was 7.68%. In rural regions of West Bengal state, female sex ratio per 1000 males was 953. Average literacy rate in West Bengal for rural areas was 72.13 percent.
West Bengal City List
West Bengal Metropolitan Regions
| Large Metropolitan Region | Population | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kolkata | 14,035,959 | 7,251,908 | 6,784,051 |
| Asansol | 1,243,414 | 646,052 | 597,362 |
| Siliguri | 705,579 | 362,523 | 343,056 |
| Durgapur | 580,990 | 301,607 | 279,383 |
West Bengal State Information
Recently as per West Bengal census data, 89.28% houses are owned while 7.33% were rented. In all, 72.98% couples in West Bengal lived in single family.
In 2011, 48.75% of West Bengal population had access to Banking and Non-Banking Finance Corporation. Only 2.21% of West Bengal population had internet facility which is likely to improve in 2021 due to Reliance Jio and Airtel.
This is likely to see increased ecommerce penetration of Flipkart/Amazon in West Bengal. 2.23% of family in West Bengal owned car while 8.52% owned two wheller.
Due to increase in literacy rate of West Bengal, we are also seeing increase in interest in purchasing Health and Life Insurance policies by West Bengal population. In few months we will also get details of election data for West Bengal.
The capital city which is also the largest city in the state of West Bengal is Kolkata. The languages spoken in the West Bengal state includes Bengali and English. In total West Bengal (WB) state comprises 19 districts. The ISOCODE assigned by International Organization for Standardization for West Bengal state is WB.
What is the current population of West Bengal?
What is the population of West Bengal in 2023? The question though legimate has no correct answer. The last census of West Bengal was done in 2011 and the next census of 2021 is postponed until 2024. The current estimated population is approximately 10.42 Crores.
What is the literacy rate of West Bengal?
What is the Sex Ratio of West Bengal?
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