Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has issued a strong advisory for tourists visiting Arunachal Pradesh, urging them to exercise caution while navigating the region’s frozen lakes and snow-covered roads during the winter season. His comments came in the wake of a recent incident at Sela Pass, where tourists narrowly escaped after the ice cracked beneath them on the frozen Sela Lake. Taking to social media platform X, Rijiju shared, “In Arunachal Pradesh, my advice to tourists: Walk on the frozen lakes with experienced people, drive carefully on slippery snow roads, and be aware of snow avalanches. Temperatures are freezing, so wear warm clothes and enjoy. Your safety is important.”
The incident, which highlighted the perils of venturing onto unstable frozen surfaces, was captured by Instagram user Farhad. Recalling the harrowing experience, Farhad wrote, “The beauty of Sela Lake is mesmerizing, but it hides dangers beneath the surface. I saw people venturing out onto the lake, and the ice began to crack under their feet. Thankfully, I managed to pull them out with help from others. This experience reminded me how crucial it is to prioritize safety.”
Farhad also emphasized the need for caution, urging others to set a positive example in emergency situations. “Good things start with you,” he reflected in his post. Local authorities and guides have long warned tourists about the deceptive thickness of ice on frozen lakes in Arunachal Pradesh. Despite repeated advisories, many visitors continue to underestimate the risks, leading to potentially life-threatening situations.
