In a significant move towards fortifying India’s border infrastructure, the Central government has sanctioned ₹28,229 crore for the development of the Arunachal Frontier Highway. This 1,637 km stretch of road, which will hug the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, is poised to be a game-changer in terms of strategic importance and regional development.
The project, which has been under consideration for years, is now set to transform the connectivity landscape of Arunachal Pradesh. This highway aims for security, economic upliftment, and asserting India’s infrastructural prowess in the region that has seen frequent standoffs with neighboring China.
The Arunachal Frontier Highway is designed to run parallel to the McMahon Line, passing through Nafra, Huri, and Monigong, and ending near the India-Myanmar border at Vijaynagar. This proximity to the LAC underscores its strategic military significance, aiming to facilitate swift movement of troops and equipment if necessary. “It’s a bold statement of our resolve to maintain our territorial integrity,” stated a senior official from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).
Beyond its defense implications, the highway promises to be a catalyst for development. It will connect 12 districts and 1,683 villages, directly impacting the lives of many in this remote region. “This isn’t just a road; it’s a lifeline for the people of Arunachal. It will reduce travel times, lower the cost of goods, and open up avenues for tourism,” remarked Chief Minister Pema Khandu, who has been a vocal proponent of better infrastructure in the state.
The construction itself is expected to create numerous jobs, both directly through construction work and indirectly through the economic activities the highway will spur. The project has already seen an increase in the budget allocated to the BRO for road development, with post-2014 budgets for similar works being doubled.
Challenges Ahead:
However, the project faces its share of challenges. The terrain in Arunachal Pradesh is notoriously difficult, with issues ranging from harsh weather to geological instability. “We’re not just building a road; we’re overcoming nature,” said Subhash Chandra Lunia, the Chief Engineer of BRO and head of Project Brahmank, who also mentioned that work is progressing on the 198 km Tato-Tuting stretch.
Completion Timeline of Arunachal Frontier Highway:
With a target completion year of 2027, the BRO is under pressure to not just meet but exceed expectations in what is described as one of India’s toughest infrastructure projects. “We are committed to this timeline, knowing well that every kilometer of this highway brings us closer to a more secure and developed Arunachal Pradesh,” Lunia added.