Kolkata: The Safest City in India for Foreign Travelers to Visit
For foreign travelers considering a safe destination in India, Kolkata stands out as the top choice. This city has been recognized as the most secure for the second consecutive year, with a remarkable minimum rate of recorded offenses.
Why is Kolkata Considered the Safest City for Travelers?
The safety and security in Kolkata are attributed to several factors. According to the 2018 National Crime Records Bureau, Kolkata recorded 152.2 offenses per 100,000 population, placing it at the top of the list of safest cities in India. Kolkata is closely followed by cities such as Hyderabad and Pune, but with a significantly higher offense rate.
City Clarity and Public Transport
One of the key reasons for Kolkata's safe environment is its densely populated streets. The city is often bustling with multiple late-night local trains, which remain operational until late hours, ensuring public transportation is accessible to all.
In Mumbai, the local trains rank as the world's busiest. However, despite its safety, it is relatively more crowded early in the evening. In contrast, Kolkata's local trains remain packed until around 1:40 AM, indicating that the city's population is more evenly distributed throughout the night.
Cost of Living and Livelihood
The high cost of living in Kolkata is another factor. Since people are more focused on earning their livelihoods, crime rates are naturally lower. The city's expensive lifestyle encourages residents to maintain low-crime practices, further enhancing safety for visitors.
Police Efforts and Community Involvement
The Kolkata Police Commissioner, Anuj Sharma, attributes the city's safety to significant infrastructure improvements and increased efficiency. Measures such as the construction of new police headquarters, technological advancements in surveillance, and the renewal of both human and technological policing have significantly contributed to crime prevention and detection.
Sharma emphasized that despite the positive crime statistics, the city remains vigilant. He stated, 'These numbers give us confidence, but they also set a new benchmark. We are committed to remaining the safest city in the nation.'
Challenges and Improvements
While Kolkata excels in protecting women from crimes, it has also faced challenges in this area. The city has dropped to the tenth position in terms of attacks against women. Additionally, Kolkata is listed alongside Delhi and Chennai as one of three cities with a high percentage of violent crimes recorded by the National Crime Records Bureau.
However, Kolkata has managed to improve in certain areas. The city has shown a commendable reduction in violent crimes and has managed to maintain its position as one of the safest cities in India for foreign travelers.
Conclusion
For travelers seeking a safe and welcoming environment in India, Kolkata offers a great experience. Its dense population, high cost of living, and strong police presence contribute to a safe and secure environment. Whether you are exploring the city's rich cultural heritage, enjoying its cuisine, or simply wandering through its bustling streets, Kolkata ensures a memorable and secure visit.