The Indian Army has mounted a large-scale Search and Rescue (SAR) operation in the remote Chaglagam region of Arunachal Pradesh after a truck carrying 22 workers from Tinsukia plunged off a cliff along the Hayuliang–Chaglagam road. The incident, which occurred on the night of 8 December 2025, came to light only late on 10 December when the lone survivor managed to reach the Chipra GREF Camp and alerted authorities.
According to initial information provided by the survivor, the vehicle fell into a deep gorge near KM 40—an area marked by treacherous terrain, dense forests and extremely limited connectivity. The accident had not been reported by any local agency, contractor or civil representative until the survivor’s arrival, prompting an immediate multi-agency response.
On 11 December, Spear Corps mobilised multiple SAR columns along with medical teams, GREF representatives, local police, NDRF personnel and the ADC Hayuliang. After nearly four hours of intensive searching and rope-assisted descent, the wreckage of the truck was located at 1155 hours, approximately 200 metres below the road in a concealed re-entrant. The site is inaccessible from both the road and the air due to thick foliage and heavy tree cover.
Eighteen bodies have been sighted at the location, and recovery operations are under way using belay ropes. ADC Hayuliang has alerted the SP Anjaw, who has reached the site, while the District Medical Officer is en route to oversee evacuation procedures and handling of mortal remains. SDRF teams, requisitioned by the Deputy Commissioner, are also moving to the area to support rescue efforts.
Authorities are simultaneously verifying the antecedents and exact number of workers hired, with the ADC questioning the sub-contractor linked to the Zila Parishad Member, Chaglagam.
Despite harsh weather, steep gradients and poor visibility, the Indian Army—working in close coordination with civil administration and specialised agencies—continues to make exhaustive efforts to trace the remaining individuals and extend every possible assistance in this deeply challenging terrain.
