Nipjyoti Kalita || Tirap, Feb 11: A recent trekking expedition, led by Everester Tagit Sorang, has brought to light a hidden gem near the Arunachal-Myanmar border – a stone cave believed to be a transit camp utilized by Allied Forces during World War II to counter the Japanese army’s advance.
Local residents shared insights into the historical significance of the find, pointing out circular symbols, English abbreviations, and numbers intricately carved by soldiers. The strategically vital hilltop, locally known as ‘Silombhu,’ played a crucial role in impeding the Japanese forces’ movement from Burma to the North-East Frontier Agency (now Arunachal Pradesh). Despite its pivotal role, the site had faded into obscurity after the war.
Khunwang Khusia, a retired forester and part of the trekking team from Thinsa village, emphasized, “Allied Forces utilized this hilltop to store rations and equipment dispatched from Assam.” The documentation of this discovery includes photographic evidence and detailed information.
Organized by the district tourism office in collaboration with Thinsa village youth, the trekking expedition not only sought to promote adventure tourism but also aimed to safeguard natural resources. Longpongka Hill, now emerging as a hub for adventure tourism, stands as the district’s highest point.
Longpongka, located 7 km from a village, was revealed through a social media post to have functioned as a transit camp during World War II. The elevation of Tirap district spans from 200 meters in the northwest to 4,000 meters in the Patkai Hills.
