IMPACTS & ACHIEVEMENTS

In a landmark initiative aimed at transforming Arunachal Pradesh’s transport infrastructure, the All Arunachal Pradesh Public Transport Federation (AAPPTF), under the dynamic leadership of its State President Shri Dobing Sonam, submitted a detailed memorandum and representation to the then Chief Minister Late Dorjee Khandu and the then PWD & UD Minister Shri Nabam Tuki. This appeal focused on the urgent need for infrastructure development in key urban centers, particularly Itanagar and Naharlagun, with proposals for constructing flyovers and establishing an Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT).
The memorandum reflected the collective aspirations of transport workers and union leaders across the state, emphasizing the importance of modern transport facilities to ease congestion, improve connectivity, and support economic growth. Shri Dobing Sonam’s proactive engagement with the state leadership showcased his unwavering commitment to the welfare of the transport community and the broader public. As a result of this visionary representation, the government responded positively. Today, the ISBT stands fully functional, serving as a vital hub for inter-state travel and logistics, while flyover construction in Naharlagun is actively underway-marking a significant step forward in urban mobility. These developments not only validate the efforts of AAPPTF but also highlight the power of unified advocacy in driving meaningful change for the people of Arunachal Pradesh.

Continued Efforts by AAPPTF Led to Action on Balipara-Chardwar-Tawang (BCT) Road Construction

Soon after successfully organizing the traffic awareness and road safety program at Bomdila in September 2011, the representatives and executive members of the West Kameng District unit of the All Arunachal Pradesh Public Transport Federation (AAPPTF) proceeded to Itanagar to participate in the General Conference. The conference was held at Hotel Tosum in Naharlagun and brought together key stakeholders from across the state to deliberate on pressing transport-related issues.

During the General Body Meeting, a prolonged and serious discussion took place concerning the deteriorating condition of the Balipara-Chardwar-Tawang (BCT) Road. Delegates from West Kameng District highlighted the road’s pathetic state, which had become a major concern for commuters, transport operators, and local residents alike.
The poor infrastructure was not only causing frequent accidents and vehicle damage but also hindering economic activities and emergency services in the region.
The members expressed deep concern over the lack of maintenance and the urgent need for intervention. They emphasized that the road, being a vital lifeline connecting remote areas of Arunachal Pradesh to the rest of the country, deserved immediate attention. The discussion reflected the collective frustration of the transport community and their determination to push for meaningful change.
As a result of the deliberations, a formal resolution was passed during the meeting. The resolution called for initiating concrete steps and coordinated action to address the issues plaguing the Balipara-Chardwar-Tawang Road.

Following the resolution passed during the General Body Meeting at Hotel Tosum,Naharlagun in 2011, the Tawang District Unit of AAPPTF took proactive steps by submitting a memorandum to the Border Roads Organisation (BRO),
urging immediate attention to the worsening condition of the Balipara-Chardwar-Tawang (BCT) Road.
Unfortunately, the initial response from BRO was dismissive, and the concerns raised in the memorandum were not adequately addressed.
In light of this indierence, the Tawang unit of AAPPTF sought the solidarity of Shri Dobing Sonam, then State General Secretary of AAPPTF. Responding to their call, Shri Dobing Sonam personally visited Tawang to lend his support and leadership. His presence galvanized the local unit and led to the initiation of a democratic movement against the BRO. The movement, driven by public frustration and the urgency of the issue, escalated to a point where some vehicles and property belonging to BRO were damaged. This unrest compelled BRO to take the matter seriously and finally respond to the memorandum.
As a direct consequence of the democratic agitation, BRO began repair work and initiated the construction of the BCT Road. This marked a significant victory for the AAPPTF and the local communities, showcasing the power of organized civic action in bringing about infrastructural change. However, the struggle did not end there. In 2018, the stretch of the BCT Road between Tippi and Nichipu once again fell into disrepair, and construction progress was notably sluggish. To address this renewed concern, the West Kameng District Unit of AAPPTF convened a meeting with BRO officials under the chairmanship of the Deputy Commissioner of West Kameng District. During this meeting, the AAPPTF representatives issued a fi rm ultimatum, urging BRO to call tenders and involve private road construction companies to expedite the work. The pressure proved effective-tenders were floated, private contractors were engaged, and the road was completed within a short period of time, restoring connectivity and easing transportation challenges in the region.
This series of actions demonstrated the persistent commitment of AAPPTF to public welfare and infrastructure development. Through strategic advocacy, leadership mobilization, and community engagement, the federation played a pivotal role in ensuring that the BCT Road project received the attention and resources it deserved.