The word Diphu came from Dimasa language, meaning a place where 'clear river pass through'. 'Di' stand for 'clear liquid/water', and 'Phu' stand for 'to pass through'. Historically, it is said that the stream in Diphu carries large amounts of sediment during the rainy season, giving it a whitish colour, hence its name. [citation needed] However, the rivulet from which the town got it name has lost its beauty, due to urbanisation, encroachment, lack of regulations and proper oversight.[1]
Geography
Statue of Rongpharpi Rongbe, a popular landmark in Diphu town
Diphu is located at 25°50′N93°26′E / 25.83°N 93.43°E / 25.83; 93.43.[2] It has an average elevation of 186 metres (610 feet). It is about 270 km by road and 213 km by railways from Guwahati. The town is located on a beautiful hill.
Demographics
Population
As of the 2011 census of India,[3] Diphu had a population of 63,654. Based on population, it is classified as a class-II city (between 50,000 and 99,999 inhabitants). Males constitute 52% of the population and females 48%. Diphu has an average literacy rate of 90%, higher than the national average of 59.5%. The male literacy rate is 94% and female literacy rate is 86%. In Diphu, 13% of the population is under 6 years of age. The major indigenous communities living in Diphu are Karbi, Dimasa Kachari, Garo Kachari, Boro Kachari and Rengma Naga.
Karbi is the most spoken language at 25,045 speakers, followed by Bangali at 13,400 and Assamese at 8,007, Hindi is spoken by 5,277 people, Bodo at 1,909 and Nepali at 2,712.
Culture
The town is home to many indigenous communities and other communities from rest of the country. Dimasa Kachari, Karbis, Rengma, Tiwa Kachari, Bodo Kachari, Garo Kachari and Rabha Kachari being the major tribes of the district. The town exhibits peaceful and harmonious coexistence among them. It houses temples, churches, mosques and gurudwaras. The town celebrates all the major festivals together with much fun-fare. Rongker, Bushu-Dima(Bisu), Wangala, Bihu, Sikpui-Ruoi, Christmas, Durga Puja, Diwali, Baikho and other festivals are celebrated with fervour and joy.
National Highway 329A connect the town to outside place. Diphu is well connected to most districts and important towns of Assam by Government and private buses. Shared Car also ply between nearby town and places. Auto rickshaw is the main mode of transport within the town.
A flyover bridge is currently being built to avoid traffic congestion in the town.[6]
