Happy TravellerWelcome to Bhiwandi, a bustling city located in the Thane district of Maharashtra, India. Situated just 20 kilometers northeast of Mumbai and 15 kilometers northeast of Thane, Bhiwandi is a vital part of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Known as a major trade center, this commercial city serves as a crucial link between Mumbai and the rest of India through the Mumbai-Agra highway. Boasting a rich textile industry, Bhiwandi has faced challenges in recent years due to economic downturn, resulting in the closure of a significant portion of this sector.
Nestled in the Konkani coastal lowland, Bhiwandi offers a scenic landscape characterized by rolling hills and meandering streams. The city serves as the tehsil headquarters of Bhiwandi and is administered by the Bhiwandi-Nizampur Municipal Corporation. With a population of 874,032 according to the 2021 census, Bhiwandi is a vibrant and thriving community.
One of the notable features of Bhiwandi is its textile industry, which boasts the largest number of power looms and handlooms in the country. The majority of the population is employed in this sector, with Bhiwandi being home to the second-largest power loom after Surat in Gujarat. However, the textile industry has faced challenges in recent years, partly due to the sudden implementation of new goods and services taxes. Another concern for textile producers is the lack of direct contact with buyers, resulting in many middlemen from Gujarat charging significant markup prices.
Despite the challenges faced by the textile industry, Bhiwandi has diversified its industrial landscape, hosting various other industries and logistics sectors. The city has emerged as one of Asia’s largest warehousing hubs, with its godowns being considered the largest in the continent. Its strategic proximity to Mumbai’s Nhava Seva port, the financial capital of India, has made it a significant contributor to Mumbai and India’s logistics landscape. Notable e-commerce companies such as Delhivery, Amazon, Flipkart, Reliance Industries, Snapdeal, and FedEx have established branches in Bhiwandi.
Bhiwandi’s economic activity can be broadly categorized into three sectors: textiles, groceries, and services including supplying, logging, and food delivery. However, the COVID-19 pandemic posed challenges for small hotels in the city.
In terms of infrastructure, Bhiwandi boasts one of Asia’s largest water treatment plants at Panjrapur, with a capacity of 455 MLD. The city is well-connected by the central railway station at Anjur Phata, which provides links to the central railways and the local train network of Mumbai. Additionally, the Bhiwandi Metro Project (Mumbai Metro line 5) is set to be completed by 2025, further enhancing connectivity in the region.
Step into Bhiwandi’s vibrant streets and immerse yourself in its rich culture and diverse community. Experience the charm of this hidden gem as you explore its historical landmarks, savor local delicacies, and witness the resilience of its people. Bhiwandi awaits with open arms, ready to unveil the wonders of Maharashtra’s Thane district.
