Landslides and Flash Floods Strike Keyi Paynor
Heavy rains have caused widespread devastation in Arunachal Pradesh's Keyi Paynor district, with landslides and flash floods washing away homes and disrupting connectivity. Four persons remain missing, and search operations are underway.
Details of the Incident
According to district officials, the downpour began on Monday night and continued into Tuesday, causing rivers to swell and triggering landslides in several areas. The worst-hit locations include the villages of Bishny and Kheroni, where multiple houses were damaged or washed away. Four individuals have been reported missing, with rescue teams comprising police, paramilitary forces, and local volunteers scouring the affected areas.
Impact on Infrastructure
The heavy rains have also severely damaged roads and bridges, cutting off several villages from the district headquarters. The Keyi Paynor-Daporijo road is blocked at multiple points due to landslides, hampering relief efforts. Authorities have deployed earthmoving equipment to clear the debris and restore connectivity.
Government Response
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed grief over the incident and assured all possible assistance. He directed the district administration to expedite search and rescue operations and provide immediate relief to affected families. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) has been mobilized, and relief camps are being set up for those displaced.
Search Operations Underway
As of Tuesday evening, search teams have not yet located the missing persons. The operation is being hampered by continuous rain and unstable terrain. Local MLA Tamiyo Taga said, "We are doing everything possible to find the missing individuals and provide aid to the affected. The priority is to clear the roads and ensure that relief reaches the villages."
Weather Alert
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Arunachal Pradesh, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall in the region for the next 48 hours. Residents in low-lying areas have been advised to move to safer locations. The district administration has set up control rooms to monitor the situation and coordinate rescue efforts.
Historical Context
Arunachal Pradesh, located in the northeastern part of India, is prone to landslides and flash floods during the monsoon season. In 2023, similar heavy rains had caused widespread damage in the state, displacing thousands. The Keyi Paynor district, carved out of Upper Subansiri district in 2023, has been particularly vulnerable due to its hilly terrain and inadequate infrastructure.
Community Response
Local communities have come forward to assist in the search and rescue operations. Villagers are using traditional methods to navigate the treacherous terrain and help the rescue teams. The district administration has requested additional resources from the state government, including helicopters for aerial surveys and rescue if needed.
