A tragic accident in Arunachal Pradesh’s Chaglagam region killed 21 workers after a truck plunged into a 200-metre gorge. The Indian Army launched a massive multi-agency rescue mission in harsh terrain to recover bodies and locate missing workers.
Arunachal Pradesh witnessed one of its most devastating road tragedies this week after a truck carrying 22 labourers from Tinsukia fell nearly 200 metres into a dense forested gorge in the remote Chaglagam region. Twenty-one people are confirmed dead, prompting the Indian Army to launch a massive multi-agency rescue operation under extremely challenging conditions.
According to official statements, the accident is believed to have taken place on the night of December 8 along the treacherous Hayuliang–Chaglagam road, near KM 40, a location known for steep cliffs, unstable soil patches and minimal communication access. Shockingly, the incident came to light only late on December 10 when the lone survivor managed to climb out of the jungle, reach the Chipra GREF Camp, and alert authorities.
Survivor’s account reveals deadly plunge
Preliminary inputs provided by the survivor indicate that the truck veered off the narrow mountain road before plunging almost 200 metres into a thickly forested gorge. The terrain is marked by sharp ridges, loose rocks and heavy tree cover, making it extremely difficult for vehicles to navigate even in daylight.
The crash site, roughly 12 kilometres short of Chaglagam, lies in a remote area with no mobile network coverage, poor road conditions and limited civilian movement. No agency, contractor or local representative had reported the workers missing until the survivor reached the camp, raising questions about monitoring and safety protocols.
Army launches large-scale rescue mission
On December 11, the Indian Army’s Spear Corps swiftly mobilised multiple search and rescue units. Teams included Army personnel, medical officers, GREF staff, local police, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) of Hayuliang.
Around 11:55 am, after nearly four hours of intensive ground search involving rope descent specialists, the wrecked truck was finally spotted nearly 200 metres below the road. Officials confirmed that the vehicle lay hidden in a deep re-entrant, covered by dense foliage and thick canopy, making it invisible to both aerial reconnaissance and road-level observation.
“Eighteen bodies have been sighted and efforts are underway to retrieve them using belay rope systems,” an official said. The steep slope, slippery surface and obstructive vegetation have significantly slowed the recovery process.
Authorities intensify coordination
With 18 bodies already sighted and more possibly trapped under the vehicle or scattered across the slope, authorities have expanded rescue efforts. The SP of Anjaw district has reached the location, while the District Medical Officer is coordinating arrangements to transport the bodies and provide any emergency support required.
The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), requisitioned by the Deputy Commissioner, is also moving toward the site to strengthen manpower. Meanwhile, officials have begun questioning the sub-contractor linked to the Chaglagam Zila Parishad Member to confirm the identities of the deceased workers and verify the exact number onboard.
Harsh terrain complicates mission
The Chaglagam region is one of the most difficult zones in Arunachal Pradesh for rescue operations. The combination of steep ridges, thick forests, sudden fog formation and near-zero network connectivity severely limits visibility and communication. Heavy December weather further complicates movement, adding risk to the rescue teams.
Despite these challenges, the Army and civil agencies have continued round-the-clock operations to locate the remaining missing individual and complete the recovery of bodies.
President Murmu’s message of unity and support
In a separate address, President Droupadi Murmu expressed confidence in the resilience and unity of the people of the Northeast. Emphasising harmony and collective progress, she stated that citizens across regions—including both valley and hill communities—must work together for development, safety and empowerment.
“We should together strengthen Manipur as a state where every child feels safe, every woman feels empowered, every community feels included, and every citizen moves ahead towards a brighter future,” the President said.
A tragedy that raises urgent questions
The accident has sparked concerns regarding road safety, worker monitoring, contractor accountability and emergency communication protocols in the high-risk border regions of Arunachal Pradesh. With 21 lives lost, the incident underscores the urgent need for improved infrastructure and strict safety measures in these remote and hazardous zones.
| Also Read: Tripura Signs MoU with STQC to Strengthen Digital Security |
