A devastating landslide wreaked havoc in Arunachal Pradesh on Thursday, severing a critical portion of a highway connecting to the Chinese border.
The affected route, which stands as the sole lifeline linking the Dibang Valley district with the rest of India, suffered extensive damage along the Roing Anini Highway between Hunli and Anini.
Videos circulating depicted a stark reality where a significant section of the highway vanished, rendering passage impossible for vehicles.
This obstruction posed immense challenges for both locals and security forces navigating the rugged terrain, heavily reliant on this lifeline.
Responding swiftly, the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) mobilised resources for the daunting task of repairing the battered highway stretches. Despite the catastrophic incident, authorities assured the populace that essential supplies remained plentiful. However, restoration efforts expected to take at least 3 days.
Expressing grave concern, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu took to Twitter, empathising with commuters and issuing directives for the urgent restoration of connectivity. He stressed on the pivotal role of the highway in bridging Dibang Valley with the nation at large.
"Deeply troubled by the disruption caused to commuters due to the extensive highway damage between Hunli and Anini. Orders have been dispatched for the immediate reinstatement of connectivity, recognising the indispensable link this road forms for Dibang Valley and the nation," Chief Minister Khandu tweeted.
The landslide's origin was attributed to relentless heavy rainfall. In response, the district administration promptly notified Dibang Valley residents, projecting a minimum three-day timeline for repair work on the Roing Anini highway.
Residents were cautioned to exercise utmost vigilance and remain indoors until road repairs are complete, and weather conditions stabilise.
Adding to the region's challenges, an earthquake measuring 3.0 on the Richter scale rattled Arunachal Pradesh's West Kameng region on April 20, as reported by the National Centre for Seismology (NCS).
Furthermore, the India Meteorological Department issued an orange alert for Arunachal Pradesh, anticipating heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds at isolated locations.
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