A recent economic and road blockade affecting Arunachal Pradesh has renewed calls for the development of the proposed East-West Industrial Corridor (EWIC), aimed at providing alternative road connectivity within the state without relying heavily on Assam. The blockade, imposed by the Takam Mising Porin Kebang following violence at Hime village in Lower Siang, disrupted movement between eastern and western Arunachal and highlighted the vulnerability of the state’s existing connectivity. The proposed 692.70-km EWIC would run along the Arunachal-Assam foothills in two phases, linking Pasighat with Bhairabkund and Kanubari with Manmao. Although the project was agreed to in principle by the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, progress has remained stalled due to issues including land availability, forest and wildlife clearances and other pre-construction requirements. Officials said most Detailed Project Reports have been submitted, while some sections continue to face clearance-related hurdles. Another proposed Inter-Connectivity Corridor covering parts of eastern Arunachal and other districts has also faced delays, with some consultancy work reportedly being considered for closure. With Arunachal continuing to depend heavily on Assam for road access, stakeholders say completing alternative intra-state corridors is essential for reliable connectivity, economic activity and the uninterrupted movement of people and goods.
