Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh: The West Kameng district administration has imposed strict regulations on the movement of hazardous goods through the strategically important Sela Tunnel, citing public safety concerns and the need to prevent untoward incidents in the underpass.

Timing Restrictions for Hazardous Cargo

As per an order issued by Deputy Commissioner Akriti Sagar, vehicles transporting hazardous materials will now be allowed to use the tunnel only during fixed time windows:

• Flammable liquids (petrol, LPG, etc.): 1 PM to 3 PM.
• Night-time movement: 11 PM to 4 AM.

Army vehicles carrying hazardous cargo will be permitted to pass strictly according to convoy schedules, subject to prior intimation to the tunnel safety officer.

Winter and Monsoon Traffic Management

The order also lays out comprehensive winter and monsoon traffic measures:

• The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) will ensure that the tunnel remains traffic-worthy, with adequate manpower, equipment, and routine maintenance.
• Traffic police will manage vehicular movement and divert vehicles if necessary.
• During snowy conditions, civil police deployed at Padma and Dirang towns will ensure vehicles are fitted with snow chains before entering the tunnel road.

Safety Protocols Inside the Tunnel

Mandatory safety measures have been issued for vehicles carrying hazardous goods:

• Vehicles must be equipped with automatic self-extinguishing devices.
• Firefighting equipment, including extinguishers and hydrants, must be installed inside the tunnel and kept clearly visible and easily accessible.
• Overtaking inside the tunnel is strictly prohibited, and vehicles must maintain a safe distance from others.
• The maximum speed limit inside the tunnel is capped at 40 km per hour.
• Halting inside the tunnel is strictly forbidden.

Additionally, any vehicle carrying hazardous cargo must inform the tunnel safety officer at least 24 hours in advance, enabling authorities to prepare a proper hazardous passage manifest.

Strategic Importance

The Sela Tunnel is a crucial route in Arunachal Pradesh, linking key areas in the border region. These new regulations aim to ensure safe and orderly passage of hazardous goods while minimizing risk to travelers and infrastructure.

By enforcing strict timing, safety protocols, and traffic management measures, the West Kameng administration seeks to prevent accidents and maintain smooth operations inside the tunnel throughout the year.