Risky Cities

Basti, Uttar Pradesh, India

Basti is a city located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is situated in the eastern part of the state and is surrounded by the districts of Sant Kabir Nagar, Siddharthnagar, and Ambedkar Nagar. As per the 2011 census, the population of Basti is around 114,000. The city is located on the banks of the river Kuwano and has a rich cultural heritage. However, like many cities in India, there are certain safety concerns that residents and visitors should be aware of.

In terms of crime rates, Basti has a moderate level of crime. According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), the city recorded 1,104 crimes in 2019, which includes 14 cases of murder, 13 cases of attempted murder, 62 cases of theft, and 76 cases of assault with intent to outrage modesty. The crime rate in Basti has been relatively stable over the past few years, with occasional spikes due to seasonal factors such as festivals.

As with any city, there are certain areas of Basti that are considered more dangerous than others. For example, the areas around the railway station and the bus stand are known to have a higher incidence of crime, particularly theft and pickpocketing. Similarly, areas that are poorly lit at night or have few people around can also be more dangerous. Visitors to the city are advised to exercise caution in these areas, particularly at night.

In terms of safe times to be out, the daytime is generally considered to be safer than the night. This is particularly true for women, who may face harassment or assault if they are out alone after dark. Women are advised to travel in groups or with a male companion if they need to be out at night. Similarly, visitors are advised to be cautious when using public transportation, particularly after dark.

There are a few other safety tips that visitors to Basti should keep in mind. For example, it is important to be aware of your surroundings at all times and to keep an eye on your belongings, particularly in crowded areas. Avoid displaying expensive items such as jewelry or electronics, as this can make you a target for theft. It is also a good idea to carry a mobile phone with you at all times and to have emergency numbers programmed into it.

In terms of history, Basti has a rich cultural heritage that dates back to ancient times. The city was an important center of Buddhism during the Mauryan period, and many ancient Buddhist temples and monasteries can still be found in and around the city. The city was also an important center of trade and commerce during the medieval period, and its strategic location on the trade routes between North India and the Deccan made it an important center of political and economic power.

Basti is a city with a rich cultural heritage and a moderate level of crime. Visitors to the city should be aware of the areas that are more dangerous and should exercise caution when traveling at night. Women, in particular, should be cautious and avoid traveling alone at night. By following these simple safety tips, visitors to Basti can enjoy all that this fascinating city has to offer while minimizing their risk of becoming victims of crime.