Introduction

As per the notification dated 01/01/2025 from the Urban Development and Urban Housing Department, Government of Gujarat, Vapi has been upgraded to a Municipal Corporation. Along with the previous municipality area, 11 surrounding villages—Namdha, Chandor, Balitha, Chhiri, Charwada, Salvav, Chanod, Vatar, Kunta, Morai, and Karvad—have been merged into the Vapi Municipal Corporation limits.

As per Census 2011, the population was 247,421. The current estimated population stands at around 451,000. The area under the corporation spans 72.15 sq. km. Vapi is located in the southern direction of Valsad District, approximately a few kilometers off National Highway 48. The governance and administrative system of the municipal corporation has now been established.

Historical Background

Historically, the Vapi region was known for paddy and grass farming between 1960–1965. After the establishment of GIDC in the 1970s, there was rapid industrial development. Around 1964–65, Vapi transitioned from a Gram Panchayat to a Nagar Panchayat. Later, on 01/06/1990, it became a Municipality. Finally, on 01/01/2025, with the inclusion of the 11 villages, it was officially declared a Municipal Corporation.

National Highway 48 (Ahmedabad–Mumbai) passes through Vapi. A bullet train station is also planned in the Dungra area. Vapi railway station lies on the Ahmedabad–Mumbai broad gauge route and is a significant junction where many important trains halt. The station handles large volumes of industrial goods including chemicals, textiles, plastic, cement, and other industrial materials.

Administrative Boundaries

Vapi lies south of the Pardi Taluka headquarters in Valsad district. The Damanganga River borders the southern side. The Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli lies to the east, Daman to the west, and the Kolak River flows on the northern boundary near Morai.

Geographical Features

The city is located along the Damanganga River, which meets the Arabian Sea approximately 8 km from the city's boundary. Due to this proximity and the high density of industries, the city is considered vulnerable to natural disasters such as cyclones and floods during specific seasons.

The area is known for its industrial spread, and remnants of royal historical sites in the village of Bhagwada indicate that it was once an important settlement. Construction in the city now includes RCC-framed buildings using bricks, sand, and cement extensively.

Demographic Details

As per Census 2011, the population of Vapi was 247,421. Currently, the estimated population is around 451,000, leading to a population density of about 6,250 persons per square kilometer.

In the past 10 years, the population has significantly increased. The growth rate during 1991–2001 was about 125%, which was higher than the district average. In 1981, the growth rate was 60%.

In 2006, the villages of Chala and Dungra were included in Vapi Municipality. Their population was counted in the 2011 census. From 01/01/2025, with the addition of 11 surrounding villages, Vapi has officially become a Municipal Corporation.

City Limits and Vulnerability

With an area of 72.15 sq. km, the city is considered prone to risks due to industrial development along the riverbanks. The presence of the Damanganga River, the Arabian Sea nearby, and industrial sprawl makes this zone sensitive to environmental hazards.