Twirlybutterfly

Surat is a vibrant city with a varied heritage of the past. It is also one of the fastest-growing cities in India.

It has embraced smart city initiatives to improve infrastructure, public transportation, and urban planning. This has made it a sustainable and future-forward city. It is a place where innovation is encouraged and celebrated. You can also try dhokla, pav bhaji, and other delicious Indian street foods while visiting Surat.

1. It’s the Diamond Capital of India

The city is a major diamond processing hub and exports over 90% of the world?s rough diamonds. The newly inaugurated Surat Diamond Bourse is expected to spur economic growth in the area.

The bourse dwarfs the Israel Diamond Exchange and is a flagship project of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It will house services like insurance, banks and even a convention center.

The city has also taken steps to reduce its environmental impact. It treats millions of gallons of water every day to reuse and save energy. Additionally, it recycles almost 80% of waste through composting, vermi-composting and waste-derived fuel. The result is a greener and cleaner city.

2. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Surat has put into place sustainable practices that other cities can learn from. For instance, its public transportation system is efficient and environmentally friendly, with buses operating on biofuel. Its rail station is also one of the cleanest in India.

The city also uses e-governance and ICT for administration to enhance the quality of its citizen services. This includes addressing the issue of waste management by implementing measures like designated sweeping and garbage collection. Additionally, it has taken steps to promote health and wellbeing by ensuring that its residents have access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation facilities. It has even set up a public health center to improve the overall health of its population.

3. It’s a Port City of Surat

Surat, which sits beside the Tapi River, has long been a center of trade and commerce. Its rich history has helped the city become one of India?s most important industrial hubs, primarily because of its diamond polishing and textile industry.

Its cotton mills contribute to 28 percent of the nation?s manmade fabric production, earning it the moniker?Silk City of India.?

The city is also known for its cuisine, which reflects the many different influences that have arrived here since colonial times. Meat lovers can feast on zesty orange-marinated skewers of chicken at Zampa Bazaar, and sweet cravings are met with ghari, a stuffed biscuit smothered in ghee sold in Chauta Bazaar.

4. It’s a City of Festivals

Surat is a vibrant city that celebrates its culture and tradition throughout the year. Whether you want to experience the local cuisine or attend one of the many festivals, Surat is the perfect destination for you.

The festival of Navratri is one of the most popular celebrations in Surat. The nine night event showcases the region?s love for music and dance, and is not to be missed.

The kite-flying festival of Uttarayan is another cherished event in Surat. The city comes alive during this time as the skies are filled with colourful kites. Surat, an UrbanShift-supported city, is embracing nature-positive practices including smart metering, public transit, and zero waste.

5. It’s a City of Food

Surat is known all over the world for its textile and diamond industries, but it is also renowned for its delicious food. There is a saying, Surat nu jaman ane Kashi nu maran, meaning that you should visit Surat for its food, not for its silk or diamonds!

Some of the most popular dishes include locho, khaman, ghari, rasaawala khaman, petis, and undhiyu. They are often served with a tangy green or sweet tamarind chutney.

You can also try dhokla, pav bhaji, and other delicious Indian street foods while visiting Surat. They are sure to please your taste buds and make your trip to the city that much more memorable!

6. It’s a City of Culture

Known for its textile and diamond businesses, Surat is home to people from all walks of life. The city also boasts a unique culture that has evolved over the years due to its diverse population.

Residents of Surat are known for their friendly nature and have a strong sense of community. They are also very hospitable and are known for their ability to help in time of need.

The city is also home to a variety of cultural landmarks, such as the Dutch Gardens and the Tomb of Khudawand Khan. Its rich heritage and vibrant present make it a true gem of India. The city has embraced smart city initiatives, including low-emission mobility strategies and urban greening.

7. It’s a City of Innovation

The city of Surat has a lot to offer, and its residents are known for their helpful nature and resilience. They are also very forward-thinking and have embraced smart city initiatives to improve the quality of life for their citizens.

This is evident in the AFCS project, which enables cashless transactions with the Surat Money Card on city buses and BRTS stations. This has accelerated the shift toward using public transport instead of cars, reducing traffic congestion and pollution.

Another example is the wastewater treatment plant, which uses a combination of technologies to recycle and reuse water. In addition, the city has a strong focus on sustainability, implementing an ERP and GIS platform to streamline municipal operations.

8. It’s a City of Beaches

As a port city, Surat has a vibrant present and a rich heritage from the past. In the past, ships from 84 countries anchored in its port.

Moreover, the city has embraced sustainability, earning it the 4th rank in India?s Smart Cities Mission and a gold level ISO 37120 certification. Its sewage treatment, green initiatives, and smart metering are some of the highlights.

Surat is also home to a number of beaches, including dumas beach. This is one of the most calming beaches in the area, and is known for its lesser crowds. Besides, the beach offers standard restaurants and water sports. A visit here is a must for all travelers!