Assam Rifles Tribute
Itanagar
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Thursday expressed gratitude to the Assam Rifles and villagers of Lapnan for their swift action during a tragic landslide in Tirap district that killed two workers and injured three others.
Taking to social media, CM Khandu said, “Heartfelt gratitude to the Assam Rifles and the brave locals of Lapnan Village, Khonsa for their swift and courageous response during the tragic landslide.” He praised the teamwork that “saved lives in the face of immense danger” and expressed condolences to the families of the deceased workers. He also wished speedy recovery to the injured and urged vigilance during continuous rainfall in landslide-prone areas.
The incident occurred Wednesday when earth cutting at a construction site triggered a huge mudslide, trapping five labourers under debris. Troops from Assam Rifles, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) rushed to the site with help from locals to carry out a rescue operation.
Two workers – Pangkai Sankioam (25) and Jaong Pansa (18) from Kamhua Noksa village in Longding district – died after being buried under debris. Three others – Panpho Pansa, Phongoi Pansa, and Chingngam Pansa – were rescued alive and shifted to Dibrugarh in Assam for urgent medical care.
A Defence spokesperson said the joint rescue by Assam Rifles under Spear Corps, CRPF, SDRF, and local villagers ensured quick evacuation. He reaffirmed the Assam Rifles’ commitment to stand by Arunachal Pradesh in such emergencies.
