Arunachal minister assures push for preservation of unexplored heritage sites in Tirap

Arunachal Pradesh Minister for Forest and Environment and Mining Wangki Lowang on January 17 said he would take up the issue of permanent preservation of several unexplored historical sites and natural resources in Tirap district, which he said hold immense tourism and heritage value.

Speaking to the media at Namsang village, his Assembly constituency, Lowang said Tirap is home to several “untouched” historical and natural assets, including Ahom-era maidams (earthen burial mounds) and nearly 80 saltwater springs locally known as “Nimok Pung.” He said these sites are of significant historical importance and have the potential to emerge as major eco-tourism destinations if properly preserved and promoted.

“There are many unexplored and untouched resources and sites scattered across Tirap district with immense tourism potential and historical significance. I will take up the matter of their permanent preservation with the Arunachal Pradesh government,” the minister said.

Lowang’s remarks came in the wake of a two-day extensive field survey conducted in the district by Padmashree awardee and eminent historian Professor Jogendra Nath Phukan and his research team. The team was invited by the minister to document and study various unexplored historical sites across Tirap.

The minister said the documentation exercise would help build a strong case for scientific conservation and heritage protection, while also laying the foundation for sustainable tourism development in the region. He added that preserving these sites would not only safeguard Tirap’s rich history but also create livelihood opportunities for local communities through responsible tourism initiatives.