Changing urban growth: impact on the people of baidyabati, hooghly

This study examines the processes of urbanization in Baidyabati Municipality, with a specific focus on Wards 9 and 17, from the years 2001 to 2024. Located in the rapidly urbanized Hooghly district of West Bengal, Baidyabati has experienced substantial land use changes and infrastructure growth over the last twenty years. The research seeks to analyse trends in land use alterations, housing development, infrastructure availability, and access to urban facilities, utilizing both spatial and socio-economic data. With the help of Q GIS land use land cover changes has been depicted from 2001 to 2024.To justify this geospatial assessment, a primary household survey has been conducted to 100 participants—50 each from Ward no 9 and 17, ensuring gender balance. The survey results offer valuable insights in to housing conditions, service provision (water, sanitation, and waste management), mobility trends, and residents’ views on infrastructure availability developed after urban growth. Initial findings demonstrate significant positive changes in developed areas, transformation of agricultural land, and a gradual enhancement of roads and drainage systems. Nevertheless, disparities can be seen regarding infrastructure development between ward no 17 and ward no 9. Socio-economic condition of residents are also influencing livelihoods and living conditions. This research adds to the understanding of localized urbanization trends in smaller towns and medium-sized cities of India. It underscores the necessity towards specific planning and participatory governance to tackle uneven development.