In a devastating incident triggered by relentless rains before the monsoon's arrival, seven people — including two families and two young children — lost their lives late last night when their vehicle was swept off the Bana to Seppa road on NH-13 by a powerful landslide and plunged into a deep gorge.
The tragic event occurred on the hazardous National Highway 13, between Bana and Seppa in East Kameng district. A Maruti Fronx carrying the victims was hit by falling debris and washed down a steep ravine.
Rescue teams later confirmed that all seven occupants had died on the spot.
Among the deceased were Sankar Aka, his wife Tasum Badi, and their children, Kachung (5) and Nicha (2). Also perishing in the landslide were a pregnant woman and two children, reportedly the wife and children of one Sichi Yame, according to family sources.
In a close brush with disaster, a Tata Sumo traveling along the same stretch narrowly escaped a similar fate. The driver halted just in time near the collapsing edge of the road. Though no one in the Sumo was injured, the passengers were left severely traumatized by the near-miss.
Reacting to the incident, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and announced ex-gratia relief for the families of the deceased. He also issued a strong appeal to the public to remain cautious during the monsoon season.
“I urge everyone to follow the safety guidelines issued by district administrations. Please avoid vulnerable zones, especially near river basins and downstream areas, and refrain from unnecessary travel during heavy downpours,” said the Chief Minister.
Arunachal Pradesh Home Minister and Seppa West MLA Mama Natung said, “It was very painful to hear about the tragic loss… My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.”
