Indore has transformed from a village to a major commercial city through gradual urban development. Its population growth rate of 40% has been higher than the national average. The city expanded north and east due to industrial development. Current land use includes 53% residential, 6% commercial, 9% industrial, and 13% public. Major industries include automobiles, pharmaceuticals, textiles and metals which contribute to the city and state's economy. The large informal sector absorbs surplus labor. Pithampur and Sanwer are major industrial areas with over 2000 factories.