Arunachal: NGO raises alarm over severe soil erosion in East Siang, seeks government action

The Siang Ecosystem Environment, Animal Nurturing Group (SEEANG) has raised an alarm over severe soil erosion in eight villages of East Siang District, Arunachal Pradesh. The NGO, which oversees flood-affected areas in Mebo Sub-Division, plans to seek immediate government assistance to mitigate further damage.

 

SEEANG's team, led by President Miloram Modi and General Secretary Otil Lego, conducted a site visit on Wednesday to assess the extent of flood damage. Travelling by rubber boat along the Siang River, they identified critical areas requiring urgent flood control measures in Sigar, Ralling, Borguli, Seram, and Namsing villages.

 

The inspection revealed significant land loss in agricultural and horticultural areas, particularly in Ralling and Motum. Borguli, Seram, and Namsing villages have suffered extensive damage, including the destruction of roads and power lines.

 

Modi reported that "hundreds and thousands of hectares" have been lost to the Siang River's flooding in recent years. The NGO intends to appeal to Chief Minister Pema Khandu and local MLA Oken Tayeng for immediate action, including the construction of flood control bunds in vulnerable areas.

 

Lego cautioned against repeating past mistakes, referencing a failed 35 crore rupee flood control project in Sigar village that led to downstream destruction.

 

SEEANG advocates for a permanent solution, proposing a flood control-cum-road project along the Siang River bank from Mer to Sigar village, connecting to Raneghat Bridge. The organisation emphasised the need for immediate protective measures at vulnerable points while awaiting larger government initiatives.