Origin and Regional Setting of Metropolises in India

Abstract

The present study has examined in geographic perspective of origin and regional setting of me-tropolises that constitute an important component of Indian urban system. These are the spatial expression of urban perspective and have acted as focal points on the cultural landscape of India. They continue to play a major role in India’s emergence as a premier industrial and political power in the world. The origin of the 52 cities that have acquired the status of metropolises in 2011 ranges from 600 BC (Varanasi) to 1960 (Durg-Bhilainagar). These are located in the four physical regions, namely, the great plains of India, the peninsular plateau, the coastal plains and the Himalayan Mountains. Their concentration was relatively high in the northern plains along the river banks and coastal areas in the early historical period. The physical configuration determined their initial location and economic factors their later growth. The medieval period of Indian history was significant from the view point of urban centres. Most of the towns which are metropolises had appeared as administrative, defence and trade points during the medieval period. The new developments in the field of industry, commerce, transport and information technology will be the driving forces in the growth of new metropolises in future.