The Arunachal Pradesh State Human Rights Commission (APSHRC) has urged the state government to take immediate steps to improve road connectivity and strengthen flood-control measures in Chakma and Hajong settlement areas of Changlang district, saying the initiatives are necessary for development, public welfare and the protection of the state’s demographic interests.In a letter to Chief Minister Pema Khandu, APSHRC Acting Chairperson Bamang Tago outlined recommendations based on a field visit to Chakma and Hajong settlements in Diyun and Bordumsa circles on June 12 and 13. The commission identified poor road infrastructure and recurring flooding caused by the Dihing River as major challenges affecting residents in the region. According to the commission, inadequate road connectivity continues to hinder economic growth despite the increasing commercial significance of the area. It noted that the nearly 33-kilometre stretch between Diyun and Namsai takes more than an hour to travel because of poor road conditions, affecting transportation, trade and access to services.
The APSHRC said better road infrastructure would benefit both Changlang and Namsai districts by improving economic activity and enhancing connectivity. The commission also highlighted the strategic importance of the region, noting that Diyun is home to the headquarters of the 2nd Arunachal Pradesh India Reserve Battalion. Improved roads, it said, would help ensure faster movement of security personnel during emergencies and law-and-order situations. The rights panel further pointed to the economic contribution of the areca nut sector in the area. It cited claims that Diyun Circle alone generates an annual areca nut trade valued at around Rs 50 crore and said improved infrastructure could help expand business opportunities and strengthen local livelihoods. Expressing concern over annual flooding, the commission said recurring inundation and riverbank erosion caused by the Dihing River continue to damage agricultural land and crops in settlement areas. It observed that displacement caused by floods has historically placed pressure on settlement zones and created challenges for local communities. The APSHRC stated that effective flood-control measures in Changlang and Namsai districts, particularly in Chakma and Hajong settlements, would help protect lives, livelihoods and property while also addressing concerns related to settlement management and demographic balance.
Among its recommendations, the commission called for the speedy completion of road projects connecting Namsai-Diyun and Diyun-Miao, wider coverage of rural roads under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) in Diyun and Bordumsa circles, and consideration of these routes under the proposed East-West Industrial Corridor for double-lane road development. The commission also suggested that the state government seek support from the North Eastern Council and the Central Government for flood-control projects in vulnerable areas. The recommendations come amid ongoing discussions in Arunachal Pradesh over indigenous rights, demographic concerns and settlement regulation. The APSHRC said a balanced approach is needed to address humanitarian and development-related issues while safeguarding the interests of indigenous communities in the state.
