Residents of Namsing and Mer villages in East Siang district have voiced strong dissatisfaction over the government’s alleged failure to implement effective anti-erosion measures against the Siang river’s destruction.
According to Mebo-II ZPM Gumin Tayeng, more than 50 hectares of fertile farmland have been lost to river erosion since last year—around 20 hectares in Namsing and 30 hectares in Mer village. Tayeng stated that farmers are left helpless as erosion continues unchecked, with no substantial response from the authorities.
Reports highlight that erosion in Mer village’s lower Mebo (Monggu Banggo) area has become increasingly severe. Floodwaters have also damaged standing crops and horticultural gardens.
Sources from the Pasighat Water Resource Division confirmed that a Rs 228 crore anti-erosion proposal has been submitted to the Jal Shakti Ministry and is awaiting approval.
On Sunday, Mebo MLA Oken Tayeng, along with East Siang DC Sonalika Jiwani, Mebo ADC Nancy Yirang, and other officials, visited the affected areas. They also assessed conditions in primary schools and addressed villagers’ concerns over infrastructure and teacher shortages. The MLA assured that all issues raised would be taken up for necessary action.
