Gorakhpur Pincodes

Gorakhpur, nestled in Uttar Pradesh along the Rapti river, anchors the Purvanchal region, 272 km east of Lucknow. As the administrative hub of Gorakhpur district, it hosts the revered Gorakhnath Math and temple. Since 1963, an Indian Air Force station graces its grounds. Notably, Gita Press, established in 1926, finds its global headquarters here, disseminating Hindu epics like Ramayana and Mahabharat. This vibrant city bears cultural significance and pivotal institutions, making it a nexus of spirituality, literature, and administrative prowess in the heart of India’s landscape.

History

Gorakhpur’s early settlement likely existed farther north due to the Rapti River’s previous course. Shifting waters revealed remnants of old boats during 1800s well diggings, indicating the river’s movement. The area’s appeal for settlement stemmed from its secure positioning—guarded by the Rapti and Rohin rivers to the south and west, and surrounded by dense forests in the past. Legends recall the 10th-century construction of Mansarowar and Kauladah tanks, attributed to a couple. Successive rulers, like the Domkatars and the Sarnet rajas of Satasi, marked Gorakhpur’s history. By 1400, a family rift prompted the Satasi dynasty’s relocation to present-day Purana Gorakhpur, near Gorakhnath’s shrine.

Demography

As of the 2011 Indian Census, Gorakhpur housed 673,446 residents, with 903 females for every 1000 males. The city boasted a 75.2% literacy rate, with 69,596 children aged 0 to 6 years. The 7+ population had an 83.9% literacy rate. Scheduled Castes and Tribes totaled 62,728 and 2,929, respectively, across 112,237 households. By 2020, 31 villages joined the municipal corporation, propelling the population beyond 1 million, while the city’s area expanded from 145.5 km2 to 226.6 km2.

Geography

Gorakhpur, positioned 100 km from the Nepal border, 193 km from Varanasi, 260 km from Patna, and 270 km from Lucknow, faces recurring floods, impacting 20% of its population annually. Over a century, flood intensity and frequency have notably risen, occurring every few years. These devastations lead to substantial loss of life, health, and livelihoods, affecting both public and private assets. Situated on the banks of the Rapti River, a tributary of the Ghagra River, Gorakhpur also boasts the Ramgarh Tal Lake in its eastern expanse.

Administration

The Gorakhpur division encompasses Gorakhpur, Deoria, Kushinagar, and Mahrajganj districts, overseen by the Divisional Commissioner. This official manages local government functions, directs infrastructure development, and upholds law and order. Within Gorakhpur district, the District Magistrate leads the administration, supported by roles like Chief Development Officer, Additional District Magistrates, Chief Revenue Officer, City Magistrate, and Additional City Magistrates. The district is organized into 7 sub-divisions and 19 development blocks, each supervised by a Sub Divisional Magistrate, contributing to efficient governance and developmental initiatives in the region.