Heavy rains trigger flood, landslides in Arunachal Pradesh

Floods triggered by rain submerged paddy fields, causing erosion and landslides in many areas of Nari, Ruksin, Pasighat and adjacent areas of East Siang district, officials said today.

The historical MMJ road, considered as the lifeline of rural people of Ruksin sub-division, has been breached at several locations causing great problems to office goers and villagers. The flood also caused extensive damage to rural link roads, they said.

Continuous rainfall for the last few days caused extensive damage to the Forest Beat office at Korang in the district.

The flood water brought in huge debris with boulders damaging water tank, drinking water pipeline, some portion of buildings and also compound fencing.

The rain triggered landslide blocked the main road culvert (PWD) near Beat Office causing soil erosion.

If rain continues, government quarters and office buildings might be washed away, Beat Officer Bapak Koyu said.

Meanwhile, DFO Bittem Darang has rushed to the spot and started relief and rescue operation to prevent further damage.

The road communication to Mengio circle in Papum Pare district remains cut off as the rainwater washed away the road at various points between Sagalee to Mengio, the sources said.

People of Mengio and Silsango areas are facing shortage of essential commodities due to disruption of road communication, officials added.