Dholera, located in the Dhandhuka Taluka of Ahmedabad district in Gujarat, India, has a rich historical legacy and is now poised to become a cornerstone of India’s smart city initiatives. Once a significant port town, Dholera is undergoing a transformative journey to emerge as a global hub for industry, innovation, and sustainable urban living.
Historical Background
Dholera’s history dates back to ancient times, with evidence suggesting its prominence during the Indus Valley Civilization. Over the centuries, it has been influenced by various dynasties, including the Solankis, contributing to its rich cultural and architectural heritage.
Dholera in the 1990s
In the 1990s, Dholera was primarily a rural area with limited infrastructure and economic activity. The region faced challenges such as waterlogging due to its low-lying geography. However, its strategic location near the Gulf of Khambhat and proximity to major cities like Ahmedabad made it a candidate for future development.
The Genesis of Dholera SIR
The concept of the Dholera Special Investment Region (DSIR) was introduced in 2009 under the Special Investment Region Act by the Government of Gujarat. The DSIR aims to develop Dholera into a global manufacturing and trading hub, leveraging its strategic location and integrating it into the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC).
Demographics of Dholera
Understanding the demographics of Dholera provides insight into its developmental trajectory and potential.
| Demographic Indicator | Details |
|---|---|
| Estimated Population (2025) | Approximately 3,360 individuals |
| Sex Ratio | 958 females per 1,000 males |
| Child Sex Ratio | 970 females per 1,000 males |
| Literacy Rate | 80.29% |
| Male Literacy Rate | 89.17% |
| Female Literacy Rate | 71% |
| Scheduled Caste Population | 1.26% |
| Scheduled Tribe Population | 0.11% |
| Children (0-6 years) | 12% of the population |
| Primary Occupation | Agriculture |
Sources: Census of India
Why Dholera is in the News
Dholera has been making headlines due to several significant developments:
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Infrastructure Growth: Rapid progress in infrastructure projects, including expressways, airports, and renewable energy installations.
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Investment Opportunities: Attraction of major investments from domestic and international companies, particularly in sectors like electronics and semiconductors.
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Smart City Initiatives: Implementation of smart city features, such as integrated ICT infrastructure, sustainable urban planning, and efficient public services.
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Economic Impact: Significant increase in land prices and economic activities, transforming Dholera into a burgeoning economic zone.
Year-wise Development Overview
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2009: Introduction of the Dholera Special Investment Region (DSIR) under the Special Investment Region Act by the Government of Gujarat.
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2013: Announcement of the Dholera SIR project by then Chief Minister Narendra Modi.
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2015: Approval of the Dholera International Airport project to enhance connectivity.
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2018: Commencement of on-ground construction, including the ABCD (Administrative and Business Centre for Dholera) building.
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2020: Initiation of major infrastructure projects like the Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway.
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2022: Launch of the Dholera Solar Park, aiming for a capacity of 5,000 MW.
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2025 (Projected): Completion of major infrastructure components, including the expressway and airport.
