Bhilai-the steel city of India

Bhilai is a town in Chattisgarh state in Eastern Central India. Formerly it was part of Madhya Pradesh state only. But some 10 years ago, certain areas of that state were made as separate state, in order to speed up development and uplift back word areas.Capital of Chattisgarh state is Raipur,which is only 35 kilometers away from Bhilai.Its present population is around 7,60,000.

Prior to 1954, this was only a village.in 1953, Govt. of India started the construction of a modern steel plant with technical collaboration from Soviet Russia.Lot of iron ore is available in Bastar area close to Bhilai. So, it was decided to develop a steel plant here.

Development of steel plant

Bhilai steel plant is the largest in India. It is the only steel plant in this country that manufactures rails.This plant was first set with a lesser capacity and later was developed step by step.Now the total number of employees there may be around 18,000.

Places to see.

There are not many worthy places to see at Bhilai.But, one big garden called MAITRI BHAG i.e. Garden of friendship is there. It spreads over100 acres(1 Hectare=2.5 acres).It comprises of a zoo and a garden.A part of the garden is very well developed with fountains .In one fountain, busts of Russian and Indian General managers of the steel plant, who worked to set the plant work profitably, are placed.

The zoo part in the park has many deers, birds, gorillas etc. This park is a good picnis spot for the city people.

Lakes

Next to the park are two man made lakes which are quite good to see.

the market place of the city is a smaller one when compared to other cities in india. But it is enough for the less number of people living in the city.

Raipur

Raipur is just 35 kilometers away from this city. It is the capital of Chattisgarh.It was much backword city till recently. now efforts are being made to develop it. There is not much to se here for a tourist. Anyway, the Asembly building, and the two sculptures placed in its garden,

the 'Energy Education Park', a museum near collector's office, Vivekananda statue(37 feet) placed at 'Neelabh park' are worth seeing.