The town of Roing in Arunachal Pradesh’s Lower Dibang Valley is gearing up for the 22nd National Mountain Terrain Biking (MTB) Championship, scheduled from February 12 to 15. This marks the first time Arunachal Pradesh will host this prestigious event, which has attracted over 450 cyclists across various age categories: Youth (14 and below), Sub-junior (15–16), Junior (17–18), Under-23 men, and Elite (19 and above). The championship will consist of 23 events designed to challenge participants, including mixed team relay races in junior and elite classes. All competitors must hold a valid 2026 rider’s license from the Cycling Federation of India (CFI).
The MTB course, prepared by the Arunachal Cycling Association (ACA), promises to be rigorous, featuring a 1.9-km downhill track and a 3.8-km mountainous section near the Eze River. Cyclists have reported the track as “very tough” yet “exciting.” Organizers emphasize thorough preparations, including accommodations and logistical support from local government and various departments.
Local MLA and ACA president Mutchu Mithi expressed optimism about the championship’s success, noting that the track has received positive feedback from experienced cyclists. The event is anticipated to enhance mountain biking’s profile in Arunachal Pradesh, which is seen as a suitable region for the sport due to its natural terrain.
Additionally, ACA Vice President Wangdi Dorjee Khrimey highlighted the expected economic boost from the event, encouraging local residents to cooperate, as the influx of participants and support staff will temporarily increase the town’s population. A games village has been established at Stone Hills resort, complete with accommodations and amenities for cyclists.
The competition not only carries national ranking significance but could also present pathways for top athletes to pursue international competition. The championship is set to commence at 9 am on February 12 at Stone Hills.
In another significant event, police in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district arrested two additional coal mine owners linked to a fatal explosion at an illegal coal mine in Thangsko. This incident has raised the death toll to 30, as some injured workers have succumbed to their injuries. The district administration has initiated compensation disbursement for the victims’ families.
Authorities have ramped up efforts to combat illegal coal mining, with numerous FIRs filed and equipment seized as part of ongoing enforcement operations. Joint search teams have concluded operations at the Thangsko mine, confirming no additional victims remain. Moving forward, the district is planning comprehensive measures, including potentially deploying drones for monitoring to curb illegal mining activities in the region.
