Landslide at Construction Site Claims Two Lives
Two labourers from Bihar were killed and four others injured in a landslide that struck a construction site in Arunachal Pradesh on Wednesday, police said. The incident occurred at a road-building project in the West Kameng district, near the town of Bomdila.
Rescue Operation and Casualties
According to local police officials, the landslide hit the site early in the morning, burying six workers under debris. Rescue teams, including personnel from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local police, rushed to the spot and pulled out all six. Two of them were declared dead on arrival at the nearest health centre. The deceased have been identified as Ramesh Kumar, 32, and Sunil Yadav, 28, both natives of Bihar's Gaya district.
The four injured workers were taken to a hospital in Bomdila, where their condition is reported to be stable. Police said they are being treated for minor injuries and fractures.
Ongoing Construction and Safety Concerns
The construction site is part of a highway expansion project under the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). Landslides are common in the region during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September. Local authorities have ordered an inquiry into the incident and have urged contractors to ensure safety measures for workers.
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh each from the state disaster relief fund. He also directed officials to provide all necessary medical assistance to the injured.
Background of Migrant Workers in the Region
Bihar is a major source of migrant labour for infrastructure projects in northeastern states. Workers often face hazardous conditions, especially during the monsoon, when landslides and flash floods pose significant risks. According to data from the National Disaster Management Authority, landslides have claimed over 200 lives in Arunachal Pradesh in the past five years.
