Landslide Causes Major Highway Damage in Arunachal Pradesh, Disrupts Connectivity with Dibang Valley

A massive landslide in Arunachal Pradesh has washed away a section of National Highway-313, disrupting road connectivity with Dibang Valley, a district bordering China. As per reports, heavy rainfall in the region over the past few days triggered the landslide, resulting in extensive damage along the highway between Hunli and Anini.

Videos that surfaced on social media show a substantial portion of the highway missing, rendering it impassable for vehicles, posing challenges for locals and security forces who rely on the highway as a vital lifeline in the challenging terrain of the region.

The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has initiated efforts to repair the damaged stretches of the highway. Despite the disruption, there is currently no shortage of essential supplies in the affected areas.

Expressing concern over the inconvenience caused to commuters, Chief Minister Pema Khandu emphasized the urgency of restoring connectivity. He stated, "Instructions have been issued to restore the connectivity at the earliest as this road connects Dibang Valley to the rest of the country."

According to advisories issued by the Dibang Valley administration, the restoration of the highway is anticipated to take at least three days. Additionally, residents have been urged to avoid travelling to landslide-prone areas and to refrain from activities such as fishing near water bodies. The administration also cautioned against nighttime travel and earth-cutting during the monsoon season to mitigate risks. Efforts to restore connectivity are underway, but the impact of the landslide on transportation and daily life in the affected area is expected to persist until repairs are completed.​