MLA Thangwang Wangham Seeks Water-Stressed Status for Longding

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MLA Thangwang Wangham with Manish Kumar Gupta,
IAS, chief secretary of Arunachal Pradesh.

Itanagar, June 18:

In a significant move aimed at addressing the growing water security concerns in eastern Arunachal Pradesh, Longding-Pumao MLA Thangwang Wangham has urged the State Government to take up the matter with NITI Aayog for declaring Longding a Water-Stressed District and to launch a dedicated long-term mission for water conservation and rejuvenation of natural water sources.

In a letter addressed to the Chief Secretary of Arunachal Pradesh on June 16, Wangham highlighted the worsening condition of water resources in Longding district despite the region receiving substantial annual rainfall. Referring to the State-level review meeting held on May 22, 2026, the legislator described the issue as a matter of profound importance that directly affects the future sustainability and livelihood of the district's residents.

Stating that water security has emerged as one of the most pressing challenges facing Longding, Wangham noted that while the district receives abundant rainfall every year, many villages continue to face acute drinking water shortages for a significant part of the year. According to him, the problem lies not in the quantity of rainfall but in the inability of the land to retain water due to steep terrain, rapid surface runoff, shrinking vegetation cover, and inadequate groundwater recharge mechanisms.

The MLA observed that rainwater often flows away before it can replenish springs, streams, and aquifers that have traditionally served as the primary sources of water for local communities. He warned that several perennial springs are gradually weakening, streams are becoming increasingly seasonal, and many traditional water sources are showing signs of steady decline.

Expressing concern over the long-term implications, Wangham cautioned that if immediate corrective measures are not undertaken, Longding could face a severe water crisis within the next 15 to 20 years. He said the district may not only experience increasing water scarcity but could also witness the disappearance of water at its very source, posing serious challenges to future generations.

To address the situation, the legislator proposed a comprehensive programme titled “Rejuvenation of Dying Rivers and Streams and Recharge of Water Sources in Longding District.” The initiative envisions a scientific and practical roadmap focused on restoring natural water systems and improving groundwater recharge across the district.

Among the measures suggested are the construction of check dams, groundwater recharge structures, rainwater harvesting facilities, artificial lakes, catchment restoration works, spring rejuvenation projects, and large-scale plantation and agroforestry activities. Wangham also emphasized the importance of strengthening vegetation cover and promoting watershed management practices to improve water retention and ecological balance.

The proposal further advocates the development of infrastructure and conservation measures aimed at protecting river systems and encouraging sustainable land-use practices. According to the MLA, community participation and scientific planning will be critical in ensuring the success of such initiatives.

Drawing parallels with successful water conservation programmes in other parts of the country, Wangham cited the transformation of water-stressed regions in Rajasthan and Maharashtra through watershed development and recharge projects. He also pointed to the success of community-led watershed management initiatives in Arunachal Pradesh, stating that similar interventions could revive water sources, enhance environmental sustainability, and strengthen rural livelihoods in Longding.

In his appeal, the MLA requested the State Government to formally pursue the declaration of Longding as a water-stressed district under NITI Aayog and allocate adequate budgetary support for a district-wide water conservation mission. He also suggested engaging expert consultants to develop a comprehensive vision document and translate the proposal into actionable programmes.

“The decisions we make today will determine whether the next generation inherits living springs or dry riverbeds,” Wangham stated, underscoring the urgency of immediate intervention.

The proposal has brought renewed attention to the emerging challenge of water resource depletion in the hill districts of Arunachal Pradesh and is expected to spark wider discussions on sustainable water management, environmental conservation, and long-term climate resilience across the state.

Location: Itanagar 791111

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