Flash Floods and Landslides Wreak Havoc in Arunachal Pradesh as Monsoon Intensifies
Monsoon rains submerge homes, destroy infrastructure in Upper Subansiri; administration on high alert
Itanagar, June 3, 2025 — Torrential monsoon rains over the past several days have caused severe flash floods and landslides in various districts of Arunachal Pradesh, with Upper Subansiri among the worst affected. According to government officials, the overflow of the Sigin River has submerged large portions of Daporijo, the district headquarters, leaving more than 117 homes damaged and critical infrastructure crippled.
Arunachal Pradesh: Monsoon Capital of the World
Arunachal Pradesh is known to receive some of the heaviest monsoon rainfall in the world, particularly in regions like Anjaw and Tawang. A viral video circulating on social media shows a local man bravely crossing a traditional hanging bridge in Anjaw district, near the tri-junction of India, China, and Myanmar, highlighting both the resilience and the risks faced by residents in this rain-drenched frontier state.
Sigin River Overflow Inundates Daporijo
The Sigin River, swollen from continuous downpours, breached its banks and surged into multiple low-lying areas in Daporijo, severely disrupting normal life. The worst-hit areas include Polo Colony, Sigum Rijo, Sigin Colony, Bukpen Colony, and Forest Colony.
While no human casualties have been reported so far, the extent of material damage is significant. Many families have been displaced, and power and water supplies in affected areas remain interrupted.
Upper Subansiri Deputy Commissioner Tasso Gambo, accompanied by Additional DC Biaro Sorum and other officials, visited the flood-hit zones to assess the situation and coordinate emergency response efforts.
“We urge residents living in vulnerable areas to relocate to safer zones immediately. All necessary precautions and rescue operations are underway,” said DC Gambo.
Administration and Disaster Teams on High Alert
The district administration has declared an emergency alert and directed all concerned departments, including the police, Public Works Department, and Disaster Management Authority, to remain on standby.
Taw Ekke, the District Information and Public Relations Officer (DIPRO), confirmed that multiple relief and rescue operations are ongoing. The teams are actively surveying the damage and distributing relief materials to the affected population.
“Our priority is to ensure the safety of residents. Emergency shelters have been set up, and rations are being provided,” said DIPRO Ekke.
Landslides and Infrastructure Collapse Add to Crisis
In addition to the flash floods, several landslides have been reported along key roads, making transport and logistics particularly challenging for relief teams. Connectivity to remote areas has been partially severed, and restoration work is being undertaken on a war footing.
With Arunachal Pradesh known for its steep terrain and fragile geology, landslides during the monsoon are a recurring concern. This year, the rainfall has arrived with unprecedented intensity, overwhelming natural and man-made drainage systems.
Government Response and Preventive Measures
The state government has instructed district-level administrations to conduct vulnerability mapping and activate early warning systems. Local residents are being sensitized about potential landslide zones and flood-prone areas through community outreach programs.
Relief camps have been established with basic facilities like bedding, food, and medical care. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued heavy rainfall in the region for the next 48 hours, prompting further concern over the risk of additional landslides and flash floods.