[ Litem Eshi Ori ]
ITANAGAR, 11 Aug: The need to expedite construction of the proposed East-West Industrial Corridor (EWIC) highway in Arunachal Pradesh has gained renewed importance amid concerns over the state's dependence on existing road connectivity through Assam.
The proposed two-lane, 966.78-km-long EWIC highway, including the existing 274.20-km Pasighat-Manmao route, is envisaged to run across the lower foothills of Arunachal. The highway would connect Bhairabkunda in the west, at the Bhutan-Assam-Arunachal trijunction, with Kanubari in the east, at the Nagaland-Assam-Arunachal trijunction.
Completion of the corridor would provide an important alternative east-west connectivity route within Arunachal and could significantly improve transportation, trade, economic activities, and the movement of people across the state.
However, while connectivity remains a major concern, land acquisition and compensation-related issues have also emerged as a serious challenge for the people affected by infrastructure projects. Delays in payment, disputes over compensation, and allegations of irregularities in the compensation process have added to the difficulties faced by landowners and affected families.
Many people feel that large infrastructure projects cannot achieve their intended objectives unless the concerns of affected landowners are addressed in a transparent, timely, and fair manner. The authorities need to ensure that compensation is properly assessed, payments are made without unnecessary delay, and any complaints regarding alleged irregularities are investigated impartially.
The importance of an alternative connectivity route has also become evident amid recent tensions and incidents along the Assam-Arunachal border. For instance, following the recent clash involving the Mising and Galo communities at Hime, the Takam Mising Porin Kébang (TMPK) announced an economic blockade against Arunachal. Such developments have raised concerns about the possible disruption of the movement of people, essential commodities and commercial vehicles between the two states.
The situation highlights the vulnerability of Arunachal's dependence on connectivity routes passing through neighbouring Assam. A reliable east-west highway entirely within the state could provide an important alternative during periods of tension, disruption, or emergency.
At the same time, the proposed corridor should not be viewed merely as a road-construction project. It should be treated as a strategic, long-term connectivity and economic-development project, with equal attention given to the rights and interests of affected landowners.
The people have therefore urged the authorities concerned and the government to expedite the necessary surveys, clearances, funding and construction works, while ensuring transparent and timely settlement of land acquisition and compensation issues.
A strong internal road network, coupled with fair compensation and transparent implementation, would not only improve connectivity but also strengthen economic activity, public confidence, and the overall development and security of Arunachal.
