Katihar is a city situated in the eastern part of the state of Bihar in India. It is the regional headquarter of Katihar district. It is one of the larger cities of Bihar and is known all over East India for its highly strategic railway junction.
History
Katihar, which was previously part of Purnia district, is part of the Mithila region. Mithila first gained prominence after being settled by Indo-Aryan peoples who established the Mithila Kingdom. During the late Vedic period, Kingdom of the Videhas became one of the major political and cultural centers of South Asia, along with Kuru and Pañcāla. The kings of the Kingdom of the Videhas were called Janakas. The Mithila Kingdom was later incorporated into the Vajji confederacy, which had its capital in the city ofVaishali, which is also in Mithila.
Transport
Road
Katihar is not so well connected through road network to the neighbouring cities of Bihar and other neighbouring states due to its interior location. An excellent Highway, however, connects it to Purnia, from where, and passes through or starts through.
Air
The nearest airport is located at Purnia Airport near Purnea, but it is a airforce station. The nearest commercial airport is located at Bagdogra Airport near Siliguri. However, recently the government has announced to open an air force base airport in Chunapur, Purnea to be allowed to use for commercial use. However, it is not operational yet.
Education
Katihar has many education institutions. Some CBSE schools in city are:
is a private medical college located in Katihar City suburbs and is recognized by the Medical Council of India, one of the few medical schools in the Seemanchal region. It was established in 1987 and has been instrumental in providing medical care to the local people. The institute offers courses in MBBS and MD in different fields including biochemistry, pharmacology, microbiology, general medicine, obstetrics and gynaecology.
Demographics
As per the 2011 census, Katihar Urban Agglomeration had a population of 240,565. Katihar Urban Agglomeration includes Katihar and Katihar Railway Colony. Katihar Municipal Corporation had a total population of 225,982, out of which 119,142 were males and 106,840 were females. It had a sex ratio of 897. The population below 5 years was 31,036. The literacy rate of the 7+ population was 79.87 per cent. Katihar is at 193th rank in terms of its population among the top 200 cities of India as per the 2011 census. Hindi, Urdu, Maithili, Angika, Bengali and Surjapuri are the main languages spoken in Katihar.
The city of Katihar hosts one of the most extravagant Durga Puja and Kali Puja celebrations in entire Bihar. Many pandals come to the city during these periods. Artisans from Kolkata are called for statue work of goddess Durga and allies. Katihar already has a significant Bengali population and this adds to the celebrations. There are lotteries and various competitions held all over the city by the Pandal hosting societies during this festive season of Katihar.
Media
Most people read Hindustan, Dainik Jagran, Dainik Bhaskar, and The Telegraph. Bengali newspapers are also available for Bengali readers. KBC News broadcasts the local news on television. People tune into All India Radio for national news.
Climate
The climate of Katihar is nearly moderate with widespread rainfall during the monsoons sometimes bringing flood to the adjoining rural areas of the Katihar District.
