Surface communication in several districts of Arunachal Pradesh has been disrupted following landslides triggered by incessant rainfall, officials reported on Saturday. Key routes, including the crucial stretch from Aalo in West Siang district to Mechukha in Shi-Yomi district, have been damaged, particularly between Roing and Pene villages, due to continuous downpours.
Shi-Yomi District Information and Public Relations Officer (DIPRO), Jumi Ete, confirmed that landslides have occurred at multiple locations within the district. The Aalo-Mechuka road is of strategic importance for Army personnel stationed in Shi-Yomi, making its clearance a priority. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has deployed personnel and machinery to clear the road, with expectations to reopen it for light motor vehicles by Saturday evening, provided weather conditions improve. Additionally, the Pasighat-Pangin-Aalo road has suffered damage near Tarak village in Siang district, leaving many vehicles stranded. Efforts to restore connectivity on this route are underway.
In the capital city of Itanagar, the district administration conducted an eviction drive to remove illegal structures along National Highway-415. These temporary structures were obstructing drainage systems, exacerbating the flood situation caused by the heavy rains. The demolition of these structures is part of a broader effort to mitigate the impact of flooding and ensure smoother water flow along the highway.
The ongoing rains have highlighted the vulnerability of Arunachal Pradesh’s infrastructure to natural calamities. The swift response by the BRO and local authorities underscores the importance of maintaining critical routes, especially those vital for military logistics and civilian transport. As the monsoon season continues, the state remains on high alert, with authorities working diligently to restore normalcy and ensure the safety of residents and travellers.