Country | India |
Population | 951118 |
Area | 98.67 km2 (38.10 sq mi) |
Time Zone | UTC+5:30 (IST) |
Coordinates | 17.67152, 75.91044 |
Highest elevation | 457 m (1,499 ft) |
City Gallery
City Description
Solapur, located in the south-western part of Maharashtra, India, is a bustling city positioned near the border with Karnataka. It’s strategically situated on major highways and rail routes linking Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. This connectivity makes Solapur an important transportation hub in the region. The city’s railway network also extends to Kalaburagi and Vijayapura in Karnataka, further enhancing its accessibility.
Solapur, classified as an A1 Tier and B-1 class city by the Government of India, ranks as the seventh largest metropolis in Maharashtra and the 43rd largest urban agglomeration in India. It has a population of around 1.1 million residents, making it the 11th most populated city in the state. Despite its significant size, Solapur is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors but offers a unique blend of cultural and economic attributes.
Historically, Solapur has been a pivotal center for various industries. It is renowned for its production of beedis, a type of traditional cigarette, leading Maharashtra in this sector. The city is also famous for its Solapuri Chadars and towels, which are well-regarded both domestically and internationally. These products earned the Solapuri chadar a Geographical Indication tag, marking it as a unique regional product. However, the export of these textiles has faced challenges due to recent quality issues.
Solapur has a rich industrial heritage with a strong presence in the cotton mill sector and power looms. At one point, it boasted the world’s second-largest and Asia’s largest spinning mill. The city continues to be a major center for cotton production, which is crucial to its local economy. Additionally, Solapur is home to the National Research Centre on Pomegranate, highlighting its role in agriculture and research, particularly in pomegranate farming which is a significant activity in the district.
The city’s infrastructure includes the Raichur-Solapur Power Transmission line, a crucial 765 kV power capacity line that supports the energy needs of Karnataka and Telangana. Solapur is also home to Maharashtra’s first waste-to-energy electricity plant, reflecting its commitment to sustainable development.
Culturally, Solapur is vibrant with numerous traditions and festivals. The Gramadevata (chief deity) of the city is Shri Shivyogi Siddheshwar. The “Nandidhwaj” procession during Makar Sankranti, and the associated annual fair known as Gadda Yatra, are significant local events. These celebrations, linked to the marriage of Lord Siddheshwar, draw large crowds and are integral to the city’s cultural life.
Solapur also houses the Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary, a notable conservation area dedicated to the protection of this endangered species. The sanctuary adds to the city’s environmental and ecological significance, providing a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and contributing to the region’s biodiversity.
With ongoing developments such as the construction of Solapur International Airport, the city is poised for further growth and enhanced connectivity. Its combination of historical significance, economic vitality, and cultural richness makes Solapur a unique and dynamic part of Maharashtra.
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