Heavy Rain and Mudslides Block NH415 Near Itanagar Airport

Heavy rainfall on Sunday night caused severe road damage and blocked traffic on the Itanagar-Hollongi stretch of National Highway 415. The incident left many commuters and emergency travelers stuck for several hours as a section of the road was washed away and debris covered the highway near Donyi Polo International Airport.

Causes of Road Damage

The damage was made worse by unregulated earth-cutting on hill slopes between Chimpu and Hollongi. Torrential rain washed loose soil onto the road, which turned the highway into a dangerous, mud-covered path for vehicles. Personnel from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) were sent to the area to clear the debris and help rescue people whose vehicles were stuck in the mud.

Public Concern Over Infrastructure

Local residents and regular commuters have expressed frustration regarding the recurring issue of illegal earth-cutting during the monsoon season. Citizens are questioning the role of the local administration, the Forest Department, and the Public Works Department in failing to stop these activities. Critics argue that unchecked hill carving along the highway continues to threaten public safety and disrupts travel to the state's main airport.