Arunachal Pradesh is reeling from the impact of heavy rainfall, which has triggered devastating landslides and flash floods across the state. As of Saturday, May 31, 2025, at least nine lives have been lost in these rain-related incidents, with significant damage reported in several districts.
The most tragic incident occurred in the East Kameng district, where a massive landslide swept away a vehicle along the Bana-Seppa stretch of National Highway 13. The vehicle, carrying seven people from two families, was en route to Seppa when it was caught in the landslide, plunging into a deep gorge. Rescue teams worked through the night to recover the bodies of all seven victims. The deceased were identified as residents of Kitchang village in Bana and included 35-year-old Shankar alias Saju Budi Aka, his wife Tasum Budi Aka (25), who was four months pregnant, their daughter Kachung Budi Aka (8) and four-year-old son Nicha Budi. Another pregnant woman, Jajum Yame (33) also died along with her five-year-old daughter Tushum Yame and seven-year-old son Patiya Yame.
In a separate incident in Lower Subansiri district, two laborers were killed and two others were rescued after a landslide struck near the Pine Groove area on the Ziro-Kamle road. The landslide occurred at the Rann Poliyan Cabbage Farm.
The incessant rainfall has also led to flash floods in Upper Subansiri district, particularly in Daporijo, where the Sigin River overflowed, inundating several residential areas. Over 100 families have been affected, with localities such as Sigin-I, Sigin-II, Sigin-III, Sinyik Colony, Polo Colony, Tikre Colony, and the burial ground area bearing the brunt of the flooding. At least 117 houses, along with vital infrastructure, have been damaged.
Authorities have issued a red alert for Arunachal Pradesh, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting continued heavy to extremely heavy rainfall. Residents, especially those in low-lying and landslide-prone areas, are urged to remain cautious and avoid non-essential travel.
Arunachal Pradesh Home Minister Mama Natung has expressed grief over the loss of lives and advised people to be cautious while travelling during the rains, particularly at night. State officials are working to provide relief and restore connectivity to the affected areas. Chief Minister Pema Khandu has directed authorities to expedite relief efforts and ensure the safety and support of those affected by the disasters.
The Bana-Seppa Road, a critical connectivity route, remains blocked due to the landslide, exacerbating disruptions in the region. In West Kameng district, road connectivity between Nafra-Nakhu-Nachibom villages and Bichom district has been cut off due to landslides at several points, leaving many commuters stranded. The District Disaster Management Office (DDMO) in West Kameng has issued an advisory urging people to avoid landslide-prone areas, streams, and unstable zones.
This tragedy follows a concerning pattern of rain-related disasters in Arunachal Pradesh, highlighting the state's vulnerability to landslides and flash floods. The authorities are coordinating with local teams to clear roads and provide aid to affected communities. The IMD has warned of continued heavy rainfall through early June, heightening the risk of further landslides and flash floods in the state's hilly terrain. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and relocate to relief camps if necessary.
