The Central government has sanctioned Rs 28,229 crore for constructing the 1,637-km-long Arunachal Frontier Highway, a key infrastructure project that will connect 12 districts of Arunachal Pradesh along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. This ambitious highway project is not only of strategic importance but also holds significant promise for the socio-economic development of the border state.

Key Features of the Arunachal Frontier Highway

  • Strategic Location: The highway will be constructed along the ‘India-Tibet-China-Myanmar’ border and will run as close as 20 km to the LAC.
  • Route Details: Starting from Bomdila, the highway will pass through towns like Nafra, Huri, and Monigong, concluding in Vijaynagar near the India-Myanmar border.
  • Connectivity: It will link 1,683 villages, providing vital infrastructure to remote regions near the international borders.

Funding and Timelines

The project is estimated to cost Rs 40,000 crore, of which Rs 28,229 crore has been sanctioned. The highway is expected to be completed by 2027, according to Subhash Chandra Lunia, Chief Engineer of the Border Roads Organisation’s (BRO) Project Brahmank.

Ongoing Work and BRO’s Contributions

Road Construction Progress

  • Construction is underway on a 198-km stretch (Tato-Tuting) of the Arunachal Frontier National Highway-913.
  • The BRO has completed 17 roads with a total length of 496 km under the Brahmank Project.

Bridge Development

  • The project includes the construction of 42 permanent bridges and 11 modular bridges.
  • A notable achievement is the 100-metre arch bridge over the Siom River, completed in just 180 days.

Strengthening Border Infrastructure

The Arunachal Frontier Highway is a significant move to counter China’s aggressive posturing near the LAC. By providing all-weather connectivity, it enhances the mobility of troops and ensures the development of critical border areas. Since 2014, the budget for the BRO’s road development and maintenance projects has doubled, reflecting the government’s focus on border infrastructure.

Economic Boost

The highway is expected to transform Arunachal Pradesh by improving connectivity, boosting trade, and creating employment opportunities in remote areas. The project underscores India’s commitment to the development of its border regions while strengthening its strategic positioning.

The Arunachal Frontier Highway stands as a testament to India’s resolve to fortify its border infrastructure while fostering growth and connectivity in one of its most strategically significant states.

(With agency inputs)