Pasighat

Infobox Indian Jurisdiction
native_name = Pasighat | type = city | latd = 28.07 | longd = 95.33
locator_position = left | state_name = Arunachal Pradesh
district = East Siang
leader_title =
leader_name =
altitude = 153
population_as_of = 2001
population_total = 21,972| population_density =
area_magnitude=
area_total =14.60 Sq. mile area_telephone =0368postal_code =791102vehicle_code_range =AR-09sex_ratio =
unlocode =
website =
footnotes =

Pasighat is the headquarters of East Siang district in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. Situated at 155 meters, with its scenic splendours Pasighat is Arunachal's oldest town and also the district headquarters of East Siang.

History

Pasighat was founded in 1911 A.D. by the Britishers as a gateway to administrative convenience of the greater Abor Hills and area north. Primarily it was a settlements of "Pasi" tribes which are found still living in the villages in and around Pasighat. Prior to the known settlement, the present area was inhabited by "Mishing" people who were forced to shift to Assam plain due to incessant raids by the hill people.

Geography

Pasighat is located at coord|28.07|N|95.33|E| [ [http://www.fallingrain.com/world/IN/30/Pasighat.html Falling Rain Genomics, Inc - Pasighat] ] . It has an average elevation of 153 metres (501 ft). The area experience tropical humid climate during summer and dry mild winter. The place is known for receiving highest rainfall in a single year. In fact Pasighat and area around it receive heavy rainfall every year during monsoon season starting from May till September. The unique trough like features surrounded by high hills on all three sides make this place ideal for attracting rain bearing cloud which comes in from Assam plain. The rain bearing wind gets obstructed by the hills and brings heavy downpour. Winter is marked by cold dry local seasonal wind which blows throughout the winter. This factor contributes in making this place fog free even in winter. The turbulent Siang River races across the district heading for the plains, where it is met by the Dihang and Lohit rivers, and then roars into Assam as the mighty Brahmaputra.

Economy

Agriculture is the main occupation of local people. Rice is the main foodcrop produced in the area. There are several large tea gardens in the vicinity of the town which attracts workers from all over the region. Lumbering was a big sustaining industry till the Supreme Court clamped down on the this industry during nineties. Agriculture and Horticulture continues to be the main source of economy for the town.

Demography

As of 2001 India census [GR|India] , Pasighat had a population of 21,972. Males constitute 53% of the population and females 47%. Pasighat has an average literacy rate of 64%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 71%, and female literacy is 56%. In Pasighat, 15% of the population is under 6 years of age.

Pasighat is predominantly inhabited by the Minyong Adi people who are known for their colourful Ponung dance and war dance called "Taapu". Pasighat is also ideal for adventure sports activities. The Daying Ering Wildlife Sanctuary is 13km away and is worth visiting. The archaeological site of Malinithan (100km) is linked to the legend of Lord Krishna and his wife Rukmini. The dismembered head of Sati (Parvati) is said to have fallen at Akashiganga (100 km according to ancient Hindu myths. This is a highly sacred place for Vaishnavites.

ee also

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References

External links

* [http://www.pasighat.com Town website]