The condition of the roads in the state capital is in tatters. Though the actual monsoon is yet to arrive, the pre-monsoon showers have created havoc across the capital region. NH 415, which is currently being upgraded to a four-lane highway, is in a pathetic condition. The work is progressing at a snail’s pace. To make the matter worse, the ministry of road transport & highway has sanctioned only the first phase of the Itanagar to Banderdewa four-lane project. The second phase, from Papu Nallah to Nirjuli and from Nirjuli to Banderdewa, is yet to be sanctioned. The people of the capital complex should brace themselves for some years of tormenting journey between Banderdewa to Itanagar.
Further, the roads in the colonies and the sectors are also in horrible condition. On paper, the government of Arunachal Pradesh claims to be pumping in the highest amount of fund for the development of the capital complex. But the condition of infrastructure, especially the roads, is the worst in the twin capital towns of Itanagar and Naharlagun. The question is, where does the government money go? Perhaps they are diverted to construction of individual projects like retaining walls, drains, etc. District headquarters like Pasighat, Tezu and Roing have much better roads than the state capital. It is a matter of embarrassment for the residents of Itanagar and Naharlagun. For the next few years the state government should concentrate on improving the condition of the roads in the state capital. It should strictly monitor the implementation of these projects. The capital complex is the gateway to Arunachal Pradesh; therefore it should have good roads.