Namsai Becomes Arunachal’s 18th District

Guwahati, August 18: On the occasion of the 68th Independence Day of the nation, it was twin happiness for more than one lakh residents of Namsai subdivision in Arunachal Pradesh as the state government has declared Namsai as the newest district of the state.

Addressing a huge gathering, Arunachal Pradesh parliamentary secretary for forests and environment Chow Tewa Mein on Friday announced the functioning of the new district in presence of minister for agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry and dairy development Chowna Mein and local MLA Chow Zignu Namchoom.

“It was a long standing demand of the people and I am glad to announce this new district which will bring joy and prosperity for the region,” said Chow Tewa Mein, addressing the audience after unfurling the national flag at Namsai parade ground.

Mein handed over the map of the district to newly appointed deputy commissioner RK Sharma which was applauded by the huge gathering present in spite of the heavy rain and thundershowers in the region.

Talking to this correspondent, Chowna Mein said that the locals were demanding a separate district since last 14 years and it was dream come true for many public leaders.

“Earlier we were a part of the Lohit district which was headquartered at Tezu. Because of bad road connectivity during the monsoons, the local people were facing serious hardships. This division will bring development to the area and will ease administrative operations,” he said.

Deputy Commissioner Namsai, RK Sharma said that the formation of the new district will minimize administrative gap as the headquarter will be connected to the district throughout the year, unlike before.

“Commuting to Tezu during monsoon season is very difficult as the Digaru Bridge isn't complete yet. Also, the way through Parasuram Kund is prone to landslide and this affected administrative operation,” he said.

Namsai district is well connected with road, rail and air network as the nearest railway station – Tinsukia – is around 70 km and Dibrugarh airport is within 120 km radius. This is seen as an opportunity for the region in terms of developing itself as an educational hub of the state.

“Promoting Namsai as an educational hub has gained momentum in recent times. We have seen various colleges and polytechniques coming up in the region. The district boosts of good road network and this has helped the local people to manage their economic activities,” said Mein.

Additional deputy commissioner Ravi Jha pointed out that the main priority of the new district will be planned development.

“Planned township, proper drainage system, solid waste management and tackling drug abuse will be key areas that the district administration will work towards. Maintaining proper land records has been a big challenge for the administration and we will try to overcome such challenges and use them as an opportunity for development,” said Jha articulating the plans for the new administration.