YUPIA, Nov 2: Distressed at the evolving river siltation, damaged roads and drainage-related ‘woes’ in Papum Pare district,
Deputy Commissioner Mamu Hage has stressed for stricter regulation of earth-cutting activities and urgent intervention to address the issues.
Chairing a review meeting of the District Task Force (DTF) on illegal earth cutting at the DC’s conference hall here today, the DC reviewed the status of pending road repair works, restoration of damaged road stretches, clearance of drainage channels and removal of accumulated debris. Critical bottleneck locations, including the bridge over the Hollongi River near the entrance to Donyi Polo Airport, were also discussed in detail.
Expressing serious concern over extensive siltation in the Hollongi River due to large-scale earth cutting in the upstream areas, the meeting underscored the urgent need for appropriate remedial measures to address the problem and prevent further adverse impacts on the river system and nearby infrastructure.
The DC directed ADC Balijan Takar Rava, who also serves as Chairman of the DTF on illegal earth cutting, to submit detailed, location-wise reports on all vulnerable points and road-blocking locations, clearly indicating their present status, the interventions required and measures necessary for timely resolution.
During the meeting, the ADC presented a detailed assessment of the affected areas, supported by drone footage highlighting extensive earth-cutting activities along the stretch from Chimpu to the Hollongi Airport tri-junction. The aerial visuals brought into focus the scale of the problem and the need for systematic assessment, close monitoring and coordinated intervention by the concerned authorities.
Hage Tachang, Executive Engineer (EE), Highways, briefed the meeting on ongoing repair and restoration activities along National Highway-415 (NH-415). He outlined the work being undertaken to address damaged road sections and related infrastructure issues. He also advocated stronger regulations governing earth-cutting activities, emphasising that effective control and monitoring are essential to prevent recurring damage to roads and other public infrastructure.
The members of the DTF subsequently reviewed the Standard Operating Procedure (SoP) governing the grant of permission for earth-cutting activities. The deliberations focused on strengthening the regulatory framework and ensuring strict compliance with prescribed procedures, with due consideration for environmental safeguards, drainage systems, road safety and the protection of public infrastructure.
The meeting was attended by ADC (HQs), CO (Judicial), DFO, DLRSO, District Disaster Management Officer, Assistant Mineral Development Officer, and EEs from the RWD, PWD and Electrical department, among others. (DIPRO)