Why did the British take upon themselves the task of town planning from the early years of their rule in Bengal?
The credit for the beginning of modern town planning in India goes to the British. They framed regulations for urban land use, which were inspired by a vision of good town planning. There were many reasons for the British taking upon themselves the task of town-planning from the early years of their rule in Bengal. Concern for Defence: The British adopted the task of town-planning as they needed defence against local rulers. Siraj Ud-Daulah, the Nawab of Bengal, attacked Calcutta in 1756. He sacked the small fort built by the English men to keep their goods. The traders of the East India Company always questioned the sovereignty of the Nawab and were not ready to pay customs duties. So, Sirajudaula wanted to assert his authority. Construction of another Fort: Siraj Ud-Daulah was defeated in the Battle of Plassey in 1757. So, East India Company decided to build a new fort, which was invincible and impregnable. It was named Fort William.
