01/06/2026
Headline:
Consumer Rights Organisation Flags Transparency Concerns Over Frontier Highway Project, Submits Memorandum to Union Ministry
Story:
Itanagar, May 31: The Arunachal Pradesh unit of the Consumer Rights Organisation (CRO) has submitted a formal memorandum to the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), raising concerns over the implementation of the Lada–Sarli section of NH-913 (Frontier Highway) and seeking urgent intervention on issues related to transparency, public participation, and administrative accountability.
In the memorandum dated May 28, 2026, addressed to the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, the organisation highlighted what it described as growing public concerns and alleged systemic irregularities linked to the ex*****on of the Frontier Highway project in Arunachal Pradesh. The memorandum was officially received by the Ministry on May 29.
While acknowledging the national and strategic importance of the Frontier Highway project, the organisation stated that the initiative remains crucial for strengthening border connectivity, economic growth, tourism, employment generation, and national security in frontier regions. The organisation also expressed support for the broader vision of infrastructure development in border areas.
However, the CRO alleged that there has been inadequate public consultation and insufficient communication with affected communities regarding the project’s ex*****on. The organisation claimed that the state administration has failed to ensure meaningful public participation and effectively address local grievances, resulting in growing dissatisfaction among sections of the public.
The memorandum further pointed to what it termed a communication gap between implementing agencies and local communities, stating that the lack of dialogue has contributed to mistrust and alienation among residents in affected areas.
As part of its recommendations, the organisation urged the Ministry to convene immediate stakeholder consultations involving local representatives, affected citizens, civil society organisations, and relevant authorities to restore public confidence and ensure transparency in project implementation.
Speaking on the issue, CRO Arunachal Pradesh President Achu Bagang reiterated the organisation’s support for national development and strategic infrastructure expansion while stressing the need to safeguard the interests, rights, and aspirations of local communities.
Copies of the memorandum were also forwarded to the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Chief Secretary, Commissioner of Public Works Department (PWD), Regional Officer of MoRTH, concerned Deputy Commissioners, and media organisations for necessary attention and record.