Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu said 42 of the 43 projects undertaken under the Pasighat Smart City Mission had been completed, marking a significant stage in the development of the state’s oldest town. He dedicated several infrastructure projects to residents during an event in Pasighat on October 6.

The completed works include the Siang Riverfront Development, an upgraded market area, Smart Guest House, District E-Library, Recreation Centre, Smart Roads, Solid Waste Management facilities and an Integrated Command and Control Centre. Infrastructure at the Mebo Entry Gate was also inaugurated during the programme.

The remaining project is a Sewage Treatment Plant, which the Chief Minister said was expected to be completed soon. Twenty-two completed projects have been handed over to the Pasighat Municipal Council and other departments and agencies for operation and maintenance, while the other finished facilities are ready for transfer.

Some assets, including the Siang Riverfront, Smart Guest House and Recreation Centre, are already being operated through revenue-generating models. Khandu said the priority must now move from construction to the maintenance and effective use of public infrastructure, with residents, the administration and elected representatives sharing responsibility for protecting the assets.

The Chief Minister linked the new infrastructure to tourism, employment and improved quality of life, particularly for young people. He said the Siang region’s tourism potential could support local livelihoods through facilities such as the riverfront, better roads and improved communications, while innovative ideas such as mobile restaurants could create additional attractions. He also called for convergence between Central and State schemes. Government of India funding for the projects amounted to Rs. 4.9 bn, while the State Government contributed Rs. 517.7 mn and convergence funding added Rs. 39.4 mn. Pasighat received Smart City status in June 2017 and is one of two Smart Cities in Arunachal Pradesh, alongside Itanagar.