The National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL) has committed to completing repair work on the critical Akajan-Likabali-Bam section of NH-13 in Arunachal Pradesh by December 30, 2025. The assurance follows mounting pressure from the Galo Youth Organisation and local authorities, who demanded urgent action to address the highway’s deteriorating condition.

NHIDCL’s project manager for Ziro, Abhishek Kumar, provided a written undertaking on Tuesday, confirming that all maintenance work along the stretch will be finalized by year-end. The commitment came after a meeting with Leparada Deputy Commissioner Heemani Meena and NHIDCL officials, prompted by the organization’s concerns over delays and alleged mismanagement.

On August 5, the Galo Youth Organisation filed a police complaint against NHIDCL, accusing the agency of misappropriating funds and neglecting repairs on the vital stretch. NH-13, connecting Likabali in Lower Siang district to Aalo in West Siang and extending to Mechukha in Shi-Yomi district, is a lifeline for local communities, facilitating trade, travel, and connectivity in the region.

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The poor state of the highway has long frustrated residents, with potholes, erosion, and inadequate maintenance disrupting daily commutes and economic activities. The Galo Youth Organisation’s advocacy has spotlighted the urgency of restoring the road, which is critical for Arunachal Pradesh’s development and accessibility.

NHIDCL’s promise to complete the repairs by December offers hope for improved connectivity, but locals remain cautiously optimistic, awaiting tangible progress. The agency has pledged to deploy additional resources and expedite work to meet the deadline, aiming to restore safe and reliable passage along this key artery of Arunachal Pradesh.

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