Serious concerns over tourist safety have emerged in Arunachal Pradesh’s Tawang district following the drowning of two tourists in Sela Lake on January 16 and another recent incident in which a visitor narrowly escaped drowning in Madhuri Lake. The incidents have triggered discussions among residents and stakeholders about whether tourists, tour operators, and even authorities are sufficiently aware of the life-threatening risks posed by high-altitude lakes in extreme weather conditions. Tawang Deputy Commissioner Nagmyal Angmo said the district administration is treating the matter with urgency. After the Madhuri Lake incident, a coordination meeting was held with the Army, paramilitary forces, and other stakeholders to strengthen safety measures.
As part of immediate steps, Army and paramilitary personnel have been stationed near Sela Lake to prevent tourists from entering the water. A public announcement system has also been installed to warn visitors and discourage them from venturing into the lake. Urging caution, the Deputy Commissioner appealed to visitors to behave responsibly while in Tawang. She also advised tourists not to post photos or videos on social media showing people walking on or entering high-altitude lakes, as such content may encourage others to imitate risky behavior. She further emphasised that travellers heading to high-altitude destinations such as Bumla Pass should spend at least one day in Tawang to acclimatise before proceeding. In addition to advisories, signboards highlighting safety precautions have been installed at key tourist spots.
Pointing to the cultural and spiritual importance of these water bodies, the DC said that lakes in the region are deeply revered. Activities that disturb their sanctity or purity are not permitted and go against local traditions and beliefs. The district administration has also reached out to the Assam Tourism Department, asking it to sensitise tour operators and other stakeholders so that visitors entering Tawang are properly briefed on safety guidelines. Tashi Dondup, president of the Tawang unit of the All–Arunachal Pradesh Public Transport Federation, said that tourists are informed about safety rules when they apply for permits to visit Bumla Pass. “Hotels and taxi operators also brief tourists, but in their excitement, many tend to ignore the warnings, which leads to unfortunate incidents,” he noted.
Jang Gaon Bura Chikong Gombu said that Sela Lake belongs to the Jang community and carries deep spiritual significance. “We have put up signboards banning swimming, fishing, and any activities that could pollute the lake. Despite this, some tourists act irresponsibly,” he said. He appealed to visitors to prioritise their safety, reminding them that unfamiliar terrain requires extra caution. “When you are away from home, you must be even more careful,” he added.
