Itanagar Bans Unauthorized Events Along National Highway 415

Itanagar: Itanagar Capital Complex authorities banned festivals, political rallies, and public processions along National Highway 415. The order took effect Wednesday. Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate Toko Babu issued the mandate to clear road space for emergency vehicles like ambulances and fire trucks.

The move follows a Supreme Court of India interim directive from April 13, 2026. The high court order in the Phalodi Accident case demands the removal of all encroachments under the Control of National Highway Land and Traffic Act, 2002. District Magistrate Toko Babu stated the administration took action because unauthorized gatherings cause "severe traffic congestion, inconveniences daily commuters, and risks impeding the movement of essential emergency vehicles."

Organizers must now secure permission from authorities for any event. They must move gatherings to designated venues away from the highway. The administration also enforced strict building codes under the Arunachal Pradesh Building Bye-Laws, 2019. Apartment complexes, hotels, and nursing homes must include mandatory stilt parking. New buildings must respect front setbacks of two to five meters depending on plot size and height. Officials warned of legal action for any violations of these new rules. This order remains in effect until further notice.