Arunachal CM mourns tragic loss of 7 in landslide, announces ex-gratia

In a devastating incident triggered by relentless monsoon rains, seven people—including two families and two young children—lost their lives late last night when their vehicle was swept off the Bana-Seppa road by a powerful landslide and plunged into a deep gorge.

The tragic event occurred on the hazardous National Highway 13, which connects Bana and Seppa in East Kameng district. A Maruti Fronx carrying the victims was struck by falling debris and washed down a steep ravine. Rescue teams later confirmed that all seven occupants had died on the spot.

Among the deceased were Sankar Aka (popularly known as Sanju Badi), his wife Tasum Badi, and their children, Kachung (5) and Nicha (2). Also perishing in the landslide were a pregnant woman and two children, reportedly the wife and children of one Sichi Yame, according to family sources.

In a close brush with disaster, a Tata Sumo traveling along the same stretch narrowly escaped a similar fate. The driver halted just in time near the collapsing edge of the road. Though no one in the Sumo was injured, the passengers were left severely shaken by the near-miss.

Also Read: Arunachal: Seven including 2 children dead after landslide sweeps car into gorge

The Bana-Seppa route is widely regarded as one of the most landslide-prone corridors in Arunachal Pradesh, particularly during the monsoon season. Chronic issues such as fragile slopes, inadequate drainage, and insufficient maintenance have turned this essential lifeline into a seasonal death trap.

Reacting to the tragedy, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and announced ex-gratia relief for the families of the deceased. He also issued a strong appeal to the public to remain cautious during the monsoon season.

“I urge everyone to follow the safety guidelines issued by district administrations. Please avoid vulnerable zones, especially near river basins and downstream areas, and refrain from unnecessary travel during heavy downpours,” said the Chief Minister.

Meanwhile, Urban Affairs Minister Balo Raja and Itanagar MLA Techi Kaso expressed serious concern over the increasing number of monsoon-related disasters across the state. They emphasized the need for enhanced preparedness and urgent infrastructural improvements along high-risk routes like NH-13.

Local authorities continue search and recovery operations under challenging conditions. Emergency teams are battling heavy rains, slippery terrain, and accumulating debris in a race against time to secure the area and ensure no further loss of life.