Correspondent
ARUNACHAL PRADESH, 4 July 2024: The flood situation in Arunachal Pradesh remains severe, with major rivers still flowing above dangerous levels. Four districts – Namsai, Lohit, Changlang, and East Siang – are particularly affected by severe flooding and landslides due to continuous heavy rains.
In Papum Pare district, a cloudburst in Sagalee led to a large release of water from the Pare Hydropower Project (PHEP). Officials have warned the public to avoid water bodies. Taba Gagung Tebw, Assistant General Manager (Technical) of PHEP, advised people living downstream to stay alert and avoid fishing near riverbanks in the coming days.
In Bordumsa, Changlang district, the Burha Dehing river overflowed, causing floods in Bijoypur, Makantong, and Wagun-III and -IV areas. This has damaged bridges, culverts, crops, and livestock. A high flood alert has been issued for Namsai district and Wakro circle in Lohit district, where water levels have surpassed dangerous thresholds.
The state water resources department reports that floods have impacted 34 villages in Namsai and Wakro districts. Additionally, five villages in Lohit district, 11 in the state capital, 16 in Changlang district, and four in West Kameng district are affected by ongoing rains, floods, and landslides.
A total of 61,948 people across the state are affected by these natural disasters. Around 300 people have been moved to relief camps in the state capital, Changlang, and Namsai districts.
The floods have also damaged 143.58 hectares of agricultural and horticultural land. Furthermore, a major water supply line to Itanagar has been disrupted by landslides between Zoo Road and Ganga Lake, affecting areas like C-sector, ESS, and Gandhi Market.
Efforts to restore the water supply are underway, with officials estimating about a week to fully complete the restoration. Meanwhile, the PHE department has deployed water tankers to provide water where needed.