MLA Kanggong Taku and Deputy Commissioner Hage Lailang visited flood-affected Gadum and Mer villages in Arunachal Pradesh’s Upper Siang district on Sunday. Their visit followed heavy rains that caused flash floods, damaging homes, schools, and local roads.
They promised quick relief and committed to improving the area’s infrastructure. This joint visit responded to long-standing requests from residents who had raised concerns about frequent flooding and poor public services.
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Residents Raise Concerns Over Flood Impact
The recent flash floods washed away key connecting roads and left several homes and schools damaged. During their visit, Taku and Lailang interacted with community members to hear their complaints firsthand.
Residents highlighted the vulnerability of schools built near riverbanks. Some schools had already suspended classes due to waterlogging and unsafe buildings. Others pointed to landslides that blocked vital roads, cutting off supply routes.
MLA Taku acknowledged these challenges. “We must act fast to protect lives, homes, and the education of our children,” he said.
Immediate Relief and Repair Promised
The district administration has begun preparing an assessment report to determine urgent needs. DC Lailang assured residents that the government will allocate funds for flood-protection measures and emergency repairs.
Authorities plan to use the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) for rebuilding damaged structures. They will also repair school buildings showing signs of erosion or structural instability.
Taku emphasized the need to keep children in school, especially in rural areas. “We can’t allow disasters to disrupt education every year,” he added.
Roads and Connectivity in Focus
Gadum and Mer lie near the India-China border, making connectivity critical for both locals and national security. Residents requested better road maintenance and faster emergency services during monsoons.
The DC responded by promising better coordination with the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). He said proposals have already been sent for new road projects under central schemes.
Taku stressed that roads not only support residents but also help the military reach remote outposts. He called for sustained investments in road infrastructure.
Steps Toward Long-Term Development
Besides addressing current flood damage, the MLA and DC also discussed long-term development. They plan to implement schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) for road development and the Jal Jeevan Mission for water supply.
Officials also want to strengthen school infrastructure through the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan. They promised to hire additional teachers and supply teaching materials where needed.
DC Lailang directed local officers to stay in regular touch with village leaders for timely updates and action. “We want fast, transparent communication so no issue goes unnoticed,” he said.
Locals Welcome Visit, Hope for Follow-Through
The visit ended with a public meeting, where villagers shared concerns over food ration delays, teacher shortages, and broken drainage systems. The MLA promised tighter monitoring to avoid ration supply gaps.
He urged the youth to take part in village development committees and share their ideas. “The people who live here know what’s needed better than anyone else,” he said.
Taku’s words struck a chord with many. Villagers said the visit gave them hope for real change, especially if promised works begin soon.
Way Forward for Flood-Hit Border Villages
The Arunachal MLA DC visit to Gadum and Mer villages sends a strong signal of government commitment. With flash floods becoming more common, proactive inspections and quick relief steps are essential.
Residents now look forward to real action on the ground—stronger schools, better roads, and faster aid during emergencies. As the state moves toward inclusive development, such visits could shape the future of its most remote and vulnerable areas.
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