Guarding Dibrugarh: The History and Role of the DTP Dyke

Dibrugarh is a major city in Assam, known as the “Tea City of India” for its large tea production.

The name comes from Dibarumukh, a historic Ahom military camp. “Dibru” may refer to the Dibaru River or a Tibeto-Burman word meaning “blister,” while “Garh” means fort. The area was once part of the Chutia Kingdom until the Ahoms took control in 1523 AD. Later, during the Moamoria Rebellion in 1787, it came under Moamoria influence. Today, Dibrugarh is an important commercial, educational, and industrial hub, located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, and is home to the historic Assam Medical College.

The Assam Government built the DTP Dyke (Dibrugarh Town Protection Dyke) between 1954 and 1955 to protect Dibrugarh from flooding and erosion caused by the Brahmaputra River. It was built after the 1950 earthquake caused significant modifications to the river's path. In resent year, FREMAA has strengthened the dyke, which now serves as a key part of Dibrugarh's infrastructure, protecting around 1.5 lakh people as well as areas such as Assam Medical College.

Following the devastating 1950 earthquake, large parts of Dibrugarh town were eroded by the Brahmaputra River, resulting in severe floods and significant loss of life and property. In response, the Government of Assam constructed the DTP Dyke in 1954–55 to safeguard Dibrugarh town, including the Assam Medical College and surrounding areas.

Over the decades, the dyke had deteriorated significantly due to the lack of major maintenance. Recognizing the urgent need for intervention, the Flood and River Erosion Management Agency of Assam (FREMAA), with funding from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), undertook the task of raising and strengthening 8.5 km of the DTP Dyke under Tranche-I. The project commenced in 2013–14 and was successfully completed in early 2017.

The upgraded embankment, which includes blacktopping and the installation of solar lighting, has been widely appreciated by both the government and residents. The improved dyke now protects a total area of 32,418 hectares and a population of 150,000, significantly enhancing flood resilience in Dibrugarh.

Today, it is an important infrastructural asset, not just for flood protection but also for pleasure and transportation. Locals utilize the embankment for walking, jogging, and cycling, and many appreciate the magnificent views along the Brahmaputra River. It has also increased regional connectivity, making it easier to move around town.