Arunachal: AAPPTF welcomes new DC of Itanagar Capital Region, urges immediate action on transport woes

The All Arunachal Pradesh Public Transport Federation (AAPPTF), under the leadership of President Dobing Sonam and General Secretary Dayum Tacho Gungli, formally welcomed and felicitated the newly appointed Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Itanagar Capital Region (ICR), Toko Babu (APCS), during a courtesy meeting in the capital on Monday, June 9.

The AAPPTF delegation, comprising its executive members, extended their greetings to the new DC and submitted a memorandum detailing the pressing concerns of the public transport sector—chief among them, the lack of designated parking facilities for commercial vehicles. Highlighting the issue of frequent traffic congestion and the growing inconvenience to commuters and transport operators, the Federation urged the administration to initiate steps for the construction of proper parking infrastructure.

General Secretary Dayum, while submitting the memorandum on behalf of the Federation, emphasized the urgent need for resolving the commercial vehicle parking crisis in both Itanagar and Naharlagun. The memorandum also touched on related issues such as traffic regulation, fare rationalization, and road conditions.

In response, DC Toko Babu assured the delegation that the matter would be taken up for discussion with relevant departments. He expressed commitment to addressing the capital's traffic and parking challenges in a coordinated manner.

Speaking to the media, President Dobing Sonam highlighted the significance of the visit, stating, "The Deputy Commissioner is the administrative leader of the capital and plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth coordination among all stakeholders. It is our duty to extend support and cooperation."

Sonam recalled AAPPTF’s earlier efforts, mentioning that in 2009, the Federation had submitted a two-point memorandum demanding an Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT) and a flyover at Naharlagun. “One of our visions—the ISBT—has been realized, and we are hopeful that the proposed flyover, which is now in its final stages, will soon become a reality,” he said.

DC Toko Babu, speaking to India Today, acknowledged the complexity of managing the capital region, describing it as one of the most sensitive and challenging administrative assignments. He urged all organizations, including the AAPPTF, to work in unity and assured that he would do his best to deliver under the existing policy frameworks.

"I have recently taken charge and have already begun reviewing ongoing development works. The 11-kilometre Package-B road construction project is progressing under the new executing agency, although inclement weather has posed some difficulties,” he informed.