Recently, in a significant development, the Defence Minister inaugurated the Sisseri River Bridge. This vital piece of infrastructure is situated at the lower Dibang Valley in Arunachal Pradesh. The 200-meter long bridge strengthens connectivity between Dibang Valley and Siang.
The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) led the construction of the bridge under ‘Project Brahmank’. BRO spearheads four major projects in Arunachal Pradesh, namely Vartak, Arunank, Brahmank, and Udayak. These initiatives aim to fulfil India’s strategic requirements and stimulate the socioeconomic development of the region.
Strategic Importance of the Sisseri River Bridge
The newly inaugurated bridge holds immense importance from a military perspective. It is now an integral part of the Trans Arunachal Highway. This highway, a ₹10,000-crore project, was conceived in 2008. It connects Tawang in the west to Kanubari in the east of Arunachal Pradesh.
To uplift the infrastructural aspects of the area, crucial for the security of North-East and the entire country, the Government adopted the Border Area Development Programme (BADP).
About the Border Area Development Programme (BADP)
Initiated in 1986-87, BADP aimed at the balanced development of border areas of states bordering Pakistan, such as Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. Later, it extended its reach to all land borders. The Ministry of Home Affairs’ Department of Border Management oversees the administration of this programme.
Under BADP, states receive a 100% non-lapsable Special Central Assistance fund. These funds cater to the special developmental needs and wellbeing of people residing in remote and inaccessible regions adjacent to the international border.
To ensure transparency and quality of work, the programme underwent amendments in 2015. It now includes third-party inspection and quality control mechanisms for random checks of BADP schemes.
Key Facts About Defence Infrastructure Projects in Arunachal Pradesh
Before we dive into the next subheading, let’s take a look at a few critical facts about defence infrastructure projects in Arunachal Pradesh.
| Project | Description |
|---|---|
| Vartak | A BRO project focusing on strategic road construction in Arunachal Pradesh. |
| Arunank | A project enhancing connectivity in border areas of Arunachal Pradesh. |
| Brahmank | The project under which Sisseri River Bridge was constructed. |
| Udayak | An initiative for improving road connectivity in eastern parts of Arunachal Pradesh. |
| Trans-Arunachal Highway | A ₹10,000-crore project connecting Tawang in the west to Kanubari in the east. |
Future Implications of the Sisseri River Bridge
Given the strategic location and significance of the Sisseri River Bridge, its inauguration marks an essential milestone for Arunachal Pradesh and India as a whole. The bridge not only bolsters military operations, but it’s also expected to positively impact the socioeconomic development of the region. By strengthening connectivity and fostering development in remote areas, it sets the stage for more balanced growth across the region. Future infrastructures will likely follow suit, embedding strategic prowess with community progress.
