A devastating flash flood left behind a trail of destruction in Arunachal Pradesh’s Possa village, leaving several people missing. In the aftermath of the disaster, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has stepped up search and rescue operations in the affected Keyi Panor district. Officials confirmed that two persons have died so far, and their bodies have been recovered, while a search operation is underway to trace three persons who are still missing.

The flash flood struck the area in the early hours of June 24, 2026, catching residents off guard and prompting a large-scale rescue operation by local authorities, as well as disaster response teams. Initially, five people had gone missing after the calamity arrived.

NDRF deploys dog squads, specialised equipment

Anand Patel, Deputy Commandant of the 12th Battalion of the NDRF, told news agency ANI that rescue operations are continuing on a war footing, and specialised equipment, as well as trained canine squads and boats have been pressed into service.

Patel added that although the district administration and local police launched a search operation immediately after the incident, the NDRF was unable to reach the affected area during the first two days due to extensive road blockages stemming from the flash flood.

He said, “Our team reached the site yesterday and has commenced search operations using specialised equipment, canines and boats,” adding that additional rescue personnel equipped with advanced search gear are expected to reinforce the ongoing operation.

Debris, adverse weather add to rescue woes

Officials aware of the development said the rescue mission is being carried out under extremely challenging conditions, as large quantities of floating debris, hazardous materials and sharp objects carried by the floodwaters have added to the woes.

According to Deputy Commandant Patel, additional NDRF teams are expected to join the operation, paving the way for smooth rescue efforts.

Hilly terrain poses challenges

The Deputy Commandant also reflected on the difficult geographical conditions confronting rescue teams. He said that the hilly landscape, coupled with unstable weather and flood debris, has made the operation both time-consuming and complex.

However, the authorities have assured that search operations shall continue tirelessly, until all the missing persons are accounted for. Multiple agencies are engaged in the operation, with additional resources being mobilised to support the ongoing efforts.