Torrential rain has triggered flash floods in Arunachal Pradesh, causing extensive damage to homes and a key bridge, with several people reported missing, officials confirmed on June 24.
Flash Floods Strike Multiple Districts
The floods hit several districts, including West Kameng, Tawang, and Papum Pare, after incessant rainfall over the past 48 hours. The worst-affected area is the Tawang district, where a bridge over the Nyamjang Chu river collapsed, cutting off connectivity to remote villages.
According to the Arunachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA), at least 12 homes were completely destroyed and 30 others partially damaged. The floods also washed away livestock and submerged agricultural fields.
Search Operations Underway for Missing Persons
As of the latest reports, at least five people are missing, including a family of three from a village in West Kameng district. Search teams comprising the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local police have been deployed, but operations are hampered by continuous rain and landslides.
“Rescue teams are working tirelessly, but the weather conditions are challenging. We have mobilized additional resources to reach the affected areas,” said an official from the NDRF.
Infrastructure and Communication Links Severely Hit
The collapse of the bridge in Tawang has disrupted road transport, leaving several villages isolated. Telecommunication networks are down in many parts, making coordination difficult. The state government has set up relief camps in safer locations, providing food and shelter to over 200 displaced people.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for the region, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours. This raises fears of further damage and more people being stranded.
Government Response and Relief Efforts
Chief Minister Pema Khandu has taken stock of the situation and directed officials to expedite relief and rescue operations. He announced an ex-gratia of ₹4 lakh each to the families of the deceased, though no fatalities have been confirmed yet. The state government has also released ₹50 lakh for immediate relief measures.
“We are closely monitoring the situation and ensuring that all necessary assistance is provided to the affected people. The priority is to rescue the missing and restore connectivity,” the Chief Minister said in a statement.
Climate Change Concerns
This incident comes amid growing concerns over extreme weather events in the Himalayan region. Scientists attribute the increased intensity of rainfall to climate change, which is causing more frequent and severe floods in areas like Arunachal Pradesh. The state has witnessed a 20% rise in average rainfall over the past decade, according to IMD data.
Local environmentalists have called for better disaster preparedness and sustainable development practices to mitigate the impact of such events.
