Itanagar, June 24: More than 15 residential quarters were damaged after heavy rainfall triggered flash floods and widespread inundation in the Poosa area near the NEEPCO project under Yazali circle in Arunachal Pradesh’s Keyi Panyor district, officials said on June 24.
The flash flood occurred following intense overnight rainfall between June 23 and June 24, affecting areas in and around the NEEPCO project site.
According to the State Disaster Management Department, flooding was triggered after an under-construction retaining wall collapsed, allowing water to enter low-lying residential quarters associated with the project.
Officials confirmed that more than 15 quarters were damaged in the incident. One woman has been reported missing, while preliminary reports also indicated possible loss of life. However, authorities said confirmation is still awaited.
Rescue and relief operations have been launched, with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) deployed to the site. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has also been placed on alert and is moving towards the district to assist in emergency operations.
Authorities said all available resources and vehicles in the Yazali area have been mobilised for rescue efforts. Ex-servicemen have also been engaged to support ongoing operations. As a precautionary measure, NEEPCO has temporarily shut down its powerhouse and initiated controlled water release from the dam.
The heavy rainfall also triggered landslides, causing road blockages at three locations along the highway network. Several people were reportedly stranded near sections of the National Highway close to Potin and Hoj, prompting road clearance and rescue preparations.
The district administration has directed the highway contractor to begin immediate restoration work. Officials have advised commuters to avoid the route leading to Ziro in Lower Subansiri district until further notice.
