[Reader-list] 5th Posting - Urbanization in Surat

[Rutul Joshi]

The context of the study is the city of Surat. In order to understand the emerging issues in the city related to its structure and composition, there is a need to discuss the economy and urbanization process in Surat. 



5th Posting – Urbanization in Surat



The city of Surat has a history dating back to 300 B.C and owes its name to the old settlement 'Suryapur'. During the 15th Century, the city of Surat emerged as an important port town and a trade centre. The city was at the height of prosperity till the rise of Bombay port in the 19th century. 



While there was a downslide in terms of Surat's economy since 1901, the foundations for the growth in the city was laid in the 60's with the expansion of diamond trade, the gradual shift in the economic base into zari and textiles [power looms], and the intensification of oil and gas exploration activities. Today, apart from the traditional industries of textile manufacturing, trade, diamond cutting and polishing industries, intricate zari works, the base has expanded to gas based industries at Hazira. In parallel to the industrial expansion, Surat emerged as a major center for trade and commerce in the region. An informal sector has also emerged in this backdrop.



These events since the 60's, while have been in the city and the region, the net result has been a spurt in urban population in the city. Surat continues to present a 6% plus annual population growth since 60's, placing Surat 9th in terms of size countrywide (2001). Spatial extent of the city also changed to include 112 sq.kms of area under SMC and 722 sq.kms areas under SUDA (including SMC area). Hazira industrial area located at 7kms distance, though, administratively not part of Surat city, has very close functional interdependency and forms part and partial of Surat economy. 



While the city had a vibrant economy, the focus was on growth with limited response to housing and services and the local administration did not translate benefits of growth in terms of a financially robust local administration. The turnaround of the city of Surat happened after the plague in 1994. This event reflected the ability of local governance to turnaround and the support of the citizens in transforming their city. This transformation is an outcome of ingenious entrepreneurship skills of people of Surat and commitments of the Central and the State Governments. The Surat Municipal Corporation has been the driving force behind this transformation process.



The city is experiencing rapid growth in economy, an economy dominated by labor-intensive activities. This character reflects distinct demographic characteristics. Being dominated by migrant labor from eastern India, Gujarat and parts of Maharashtra has resulted a low sex ratio, growth of informal settlements characterized by high density and associated public health risks.



The distribution of incomes in Surat, reflects the quality of its work force vis-a vis comparable cities. Around 60 % earn less than Rs 25000 a year or about Rs. 70 per day. While the incomes are higher than the standard poverty levels, it needs mention that the cost of living in Surat if not equal to Mumbai is at least close to this level. This is one of the reasons for the growth in informal settlements.


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