Enhancing Infrastructure and Connectivity at the Line of Actual Control in Arunachal Pradesh

Introduction:

Arunachal Pradesh, the Indian Union's 24th state, recently made the news due to heightened efforts aimed at improving its infrastructure and connectivity along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. Situated in Northeast India, the state – flanked by Bhutan, Myanmar, and China, and bordered by Assam's plains – plays a strategically vital role, accentuating the significance of the updated infrastructure.

Enhancements in Infrastructure and Connectivity:

I. Boosting Connectivity at the LAC:

    - Indian Army has played a critical role in linking remote parts of Arunachal Pradesh and speeding up infrastructure upgrades along the contentious LAC.

    - The nearly 2,400-km-long Trans Arunachal Highway and the ongoing trans-frontier initiative aim to better travel times for both the military and civilians in eastern Arunachal Pradesh.

    - Additionally, the enclave will gain year-round access to Tawang, with the completion of the under-construction Nechiphu and Sela tunnels on the Balipara-Chariduar-Tawang Road.

II. Border Roads Organisation (BRO):

    - Founded in 1960, the BRO operates under the Ministry of Defence, focusing on the development of an adequate road network in the North and North-Eastern border regions.

    - Its essential functions involve the development and sustenance of infrastructure to aid armed forces, achieve international standards in construction activity, and optimise potential through diversified projects.

III. Enhancing Surveillance and Infrastructure:

    - The last few years have seen an upgrade of firepower and infrastructure in the Tawang sector of Arunachal Pradesh.

    - Other improvements include road infrastructure, bridges, tunnels, housing and storage facilities, aviation facilities, and upgrades in communications and surveillance.

Challenges in Development:

I. Geographical and Educational Hurdles:

    - High-altitude terrain and sparse population along the LAC contribute to the challenges of infrastructure development.

    - The residents of these remote locations also have limited access to quality education, affecting their quality of life.

II. Financial Constraints and Security Concerns:

    - The complex terrain leads to spiralling infrastructure development costs, posing significant resource allocation and management challenges.

    - The proximity to the contested Chinese border adds a layer of complexity, necessitating secure infrastructure development.

III. Limited Last-Mile Connectivity:

    - The most significant hurdle lies in providing comprehensive connectivity to the farthest posts.

Government Initiatives:

I. Inter-state Border Areas Development Programme (ISBADP) & Border Areas Development Department (BADP):

    - These programs focus on meeting the developmental needs and wellbeing of residents in remote border regions.

II. Ministry of Home Affairs Initiatives:

    - The initiatives include fence constructions, floodlighting, roads, Border Out Posts (BOPs), Company Operating Bases (COBs), and the deployment of technological solutions along India's borders.

III. Vibrant Villages Programme:

    - This initiative focuses on the development of remote Arunachal Pradesh villages, improving living standards in the state.

In conclusion, India has significantly stepped up its efforts to enhance infrastructure and connectivity along its northeastern border. This acceleration addresses multiple challenges such as geographical constraints and lack of quality education. Additionally, several government initiatives are further aiming to improve socio-economic conditions and ensure sustainable living along the border.