Landslide kills 16 in Arunachal Pradesh

Incessant rains triggered massive landslide in Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh

At least 16 people were killed and many buried under debris in a landslide that struck Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh early Friday morning, officials said.

Rescue operations are underway and 16 bodies have been recovered so far.

"The landslide occurred somewhere around 2.30 am today (Friday). Local authorities are involved in the rescue operations," said a senior official.

The incident occurred at 3 am when 17 labourers engaged in construction works were inside the camp at a place four km away from Tawang town, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Headquarters) Lod Gambo said.

Gambo said rescue operation was on and two JCBs have been pressed into service to clear the debris.

The PWD road in between New Lebrang and government higher secondary school has also been blocked due to landslide, while damages to residential buildings have been reported from the area.

Heavy rainfall in the past few days in the district resulted in a flood-like situation which severely damaged the Kitpi Ph-I and Ph-II hydel projects.

Power department officials said restoration work could not be started due to the continuous rain and both the power stations had been shut down due to the damage.

Taking serious note of the situation, DC Duly Kamduk has directed the department concerned for assessment and submission of detailed report for action.