Burdwan is quite an old and important town of the state and have strong reference in history with regard to trade and commerce. Bardhaman also called Burdwan, or Barddhaman - a major communications centre located on the banks of the River Damodar. The Municipality of Burdwan was established in the year 1865. At that time the municipal area was 12.8 sq. km. with a population of 39,818. As per 2001 census, the population and the area of Burdwan Municipality are 2,85,602 and 26.30 sq. km. respectively. At present the municipality has 35 wards. Burdwan is the principal town and civil station of the district.