Howrah (Haora), India

Capital City

With a population of over 1 million, Howrah is an industrial powerhouse teetering under the weight of rapid, unplanned growth. While the city serves as a crucial transportation hub, its congested streets and heavy pollution are persistent headaches. Howrah's municipal bureaucracy also leaves much to be desired, as the city has been run by unelected administrators since 2018. Yet, the city's engineering prowess and strategic location across the Hooghly River from Kolkata make it an attractive option for those seeking economic opportunity, if they can stomach the urban challenges.