Arunachal: Steel bridge collapses amid torrential rainfall in Tirap’s Lazu Circle

Relentless rains triggered flash floods and multiple landslides in Lazu Circle of Tirap district, leading to the collapse of a crucial steel bridge that connected Lower and Upper Chinhan villages to the district headquarters in Khonsa. The incident has resulted in complete disruption of road connectivity and significant damage to the region’s rural infrastructure.

The steel bridge, which served as the lifeline between Chinhan villages and essential destinations including medical and market facilities, was swept away by the swollen river current. With no alternative route in place, the area now remains entirely isolated, heightening concerns over access to food, medicine, and emergency services.

Multiple landslides were also reported across the Lazu region, particularly along village roads and internal pathways. These have either been blocked by debris or completely washed away, making movement perilous and in many areas impossible. Commuters, farmers, daily wage workers, and school-going children have been severely impacted.

Residents report that despite the critical nature of the situation, no relief teams, district officials, or emergency supplies have reached Chinhan village as of June 1, 2025. This absence of administrative support has caused growing anxiety among locals who now depend on voluntary efforts for survival and communication.

“We are cut off from the rest of the world. There’s no road, no medicine, no food,” said a local community member, appealing for swift government intervention.

Community leaders and student organizations are urging the Tirap district administration and disaster management authorities to:

Immediately deploy disaster response teams to the affected zone.

Restore connectivity through emergency bridge reconstruction and debris clearance.

Dispatch emergency relief materials such as food, drinking water, tarpaulins, and medicines.