The government of Arunachal Pradesh has formed committees comprising MLAs, and led by a minister, to look after the affairs of the check gates of the state. In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent imposition of lockdown, these check gates, which are gateways to the state, have become very important. At present, 12 check gates have been made operational in the state from where vehicles carrying essential items, as well as stranded Arunachalees, are allowed to enter the state. It is encouraging to see the ministers and members of the committee visiting these check gates to inspect the preparedness.
At present, most of the set up in these gates are temporary in nature. In fact, in several such gates, the health workers and police officials posted are facing torrid times due to lack of infrastructure. As the monsoon arrives, the situation is going to get worse for them. It is understood that the battle against Covid-19 is going to be lengthy. All the measures being adopted at the check gates will have to be continued for next many years until a decisive victory over the Covid-19 is achieved. Keeping this in mind, the state government should explore the possibility of improving physical infrastructure in these gates by creating permanent assets at the earliest. This will go a long way in improving the condition of the check gates. In the battle against Covid-19, the role of check gates is crucial, and accordingly, the government should take urgent steps to improve their infrastructure.