15 Interesting Facts About Dhanbad, the Coal Capital of India

Dhanbad is much more than a dot on the railway map. It is one of India's most important industrial cities and has a story that touches science, education, food and nature. Here are some facts that make Dhanbad special.

Coal, mines and industry

1. Coal Capital of India: Dhanbad is widely known as the Coal Capital of India because of the huge coal reserves around the city.
2. Jharia coalfield: The Jharia coalfield is one of India's most important sources of coking coal, which is used to make steel.
3. Underground fires: Some coal seams in Jharia have been burning underground for more than a century.
4. BCCL headquarters: Bharat Coking Coal Limited, a subsidiary of Coal India, has its headquarters at Koyla Bhawan in Dhanbad.
5. Mining research: The Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR-CIMFR) is based in Dhanbad.

Education and history

1. IIT (ISM) Dhanbad: Founded in 1926 as the Indian School of Mines, it became an IIT in 2016 and is one of the country's oldest technical institutes.
2. A young district: Dhanbad district was formed in 1956, carved out of the old Manbhum district.
3. Railway powerhouse: Dhanbad railway division moves huge volumes of coal and is one of the top freight earners of Indian Railways.
4. Part of Jharkhand since 2000: Dhanbad became part of the new state of Jharkhand when it was created in November 2000.

Nature and places

1. Maithon Dam: Built on the Barakar river, Maithon is a favourite picnic and boating spot about 50 km from the city.
2. Panchet Dam: On the Damodar river, Panchet is part of the Damodar Valley Corporation projects.
3. Topchanchi Lake: A calm lake surrounded by hills and forest, perfect for a weekend drive.
4. Bhatinda Falls: A small, scenic waterfall near the city that comes alive in the monsoon.

People and food

1. A mini India: People from Bihar, Bengal, Odisha, Punjab and across India live and work here, which shows in festivals and food.
2. Food lovers' city: From litti chokha and dhuska to Bengali sweets and hot samosas, Dhanbad's food scene is full of flavour.

Want to explore Dhanbad yourself? Search restaurants, hotels and shops near you on Dhanbad Bazaar.