Arunachal's NH-13 to Indo-China border crippled by landslides; residents seek urgent restoration

Heavy monsoon rains have left the Pasighat–Pangin stretch of National Highway-13 (NH-13) in Arunachal Pradesh's Siang district in a deplorable condition, with repeated landslides severely disrupting connectivity and prompting residents to demand immediate restoration.

 

The latest major blockages were reported at Km 42 near Rottung and Lelek Point in Kebang circle, where massive landslides washed away portions of the highway, cutting off surface communication.

 

NH-13, a strategic road linking the Indo-China border areas in Shi Yomi and Upper Subansiri districts, has remained highly vulnerable during the monsoon, with recurring mudslides, rockfalls and soil erosion affecting traffic movement.

 

The East Siang district administration has deployed heavy machinery to clear debris and restore connectivity. However, continuous rainfall and unstable slopes have hampered restoration efforts, with the road being opened only intermittently for Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) whenever conditions permit.

 

Residents expressed concern over the absence of adequate safety signages along the landslide-prone highway, saying the lack of warning systems has increased risks for commuters travelling through the affected stretch.

 

Meanwhile, authorities said the water levels of the Siang and Sibokorong rivers have receded below the danger mark, although the situation continues to be closely monitored in view of the ongoing monsoon.