Question

Can colonial cities in India rightly be understood as divided cities? Substantiate your answer with examples.

13 Sep 2025
Answer :
Word Count : 911
Colonial cities in India can indeed be understood as divided cities, both socially and spatially, due to the policies, urban planning, and economic strategies implemented by the British during their rule. The concept of a divided city reflects a duality, where distinct zones, populations, and infrastructures emerged to serve different purposes and communities, often privileging the colonial rulers and their allies over the indigenous population. This division manifested through segregation in residential areas, commercial zones, transportation networks, and civic amenities, producing enduring patterns that shaped the trajectory of Indian urbanization. One of the most evident examples of a divided city can be seen in cities like Bombay (now Mumbai), Calcutta (now Kolkata), and Madras (now Chennai). In Bombay, for instance, the British developed the island’s southern tip, particularly areas like Colaba, Fort, and Byculla, into a commercial and administrative hub dominated by European settlers and colonial officials. These zones had well-planned streets, superior sanitation, and modern amenities reflecting European tastes and lifestyles. In stark contrast, indigenous populations were pushed to peripheral areas such as Dharavi or Parel, which developed as dense, overcrowded, and poorly serviced neighborhoods. This spatial segregation was not accidental; it reflected the colonial administration's aim to control urban spaces, prioritize European commercial interests, and enforce social hierarchies. Such planning created a visible distinction between the “European city” and the “native town,” a hallmark of ___ _______ __________ _______ _____ __________ ____ ______ _____ ______ _______ ______.
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