Tracing The Journey Of Manhole Covers Made In Kolkata's Dasnagar To US, UK, UAE. In Pics

A photo of the Jagannath Iron Foundry. Of the 300 foundries in Bengal, 95 percent of these units are concentrated in the district of Howrah. Some foundries date back to the 19th century.

Not only the US, foundries in Howrah export manhole covers also to European countries like the UK, Italy, Germany, Romania, Belgium, Portugal and even to the UAE. (Source: Abhishek De)

The production of manhole cover starts after the final design is approved by the respective buyers. Manhole covers are made out of cast iron. Cast iron means that the iron is melted and then poured, or cast, into a mold. (Source: Abhishek De)

Additionally, sewer grates, water metres, and other castings are also supplied to US municipalities by India. (Source: Abhishek De)

Around 10,000-15,000 tonnes of manhole covers and other castings (municipal and sanitary castings) are exported per month from the eastern belt. (Source: Abhishek De)

Apart from specialised labour, cost arbitrage was a major factor why foreign nations prefer to import manhole covers from India. (Source: Abhishek De)

The Madhogarias have been running Jagannath Iron Foundry in Howrah for nearly five decades. The foundry exports manhole covers to around 25 nations and a bulk of their products are bought by Arab nations. (Source: Abhishek De)

A tonne of manhole covers can cost anywhere between Rs 90,000 and Rs 1 lakh, and it depends on the size, weight and drillings. (Source: Abhishek De)