Kolkata has a population of around 14.9 million, making it India's third largest city. But as it has only a small area, the population density is among the highest in the country, and the world.
With the Density close to 24,000 people per square kilometer (or 63,000 per square mile), this is one of the world's highest densities among the top cities.
Kolkata has always been a destination for economic migrants from all over the region, and a huge population of political migrants from Bangladesh in the 70's. With the prices of real estate going through the roof, the city has seen a growth in slums which is said to have crossed 5,500 in numbers, registered or not.
As open land is a rarity, the lands occupied by the railways and the tracks are sometimes the only free space seen in the city and many a slum is built on these spaces. And now there are communities which live practically on the tracks!
On a walk around the city recently, I came across one such community which I photographed for steemit, and I hope you like them.
mobile camera, Samsung Galaxy S6 edge
All photos are free to use without attribution or copyrights.
(Though you may give me credit, if you wish!)
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Kolkata is an intriguing city. I have lived there for 3 years and one thing is for sure. You always want to go back for more!
This has been my best city in India for ever! I have learnt the values of simplicity and humbleness from this city which thrives on these principles, even in these days of crass consumerism. It truly is a city of joy, in every way!
Very well spoken. I agree 100%
Super interesting. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you!
Very intriguing post @norbu!!! I can't believe that some families are actually setup with blankets right on the tracks, that's crazy. Upvoted and followed.
I too wondered how people live like that, but when I asked them, it was the only life they knew!
And thanks for the upvote and the follow!
Thank for sharing these photos!
You are welcome!
People have no fear of trains whatsoever. It's just so natural to them.
I guess they would be if the trains were travelling at high speeds, which might not be possible in the city. But thank you for your comment.