Khonsa, May 31: The three-day Golden Jubilee celebration marking 50 years of the Arunachal Pradesh State Transport Services (APSTS) concluded on a grand note in Khonsa, Tirap district, on Saturday, commemorating the organisation’s remarkable journey since its establishment in 1975.
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| Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Ajay Tamta receives a traditional memento during the APSTS Golden Jubilee celebration in Khonsa, Tirap district, marking 50 years of Arunachal Pradesh State Transport Services. (Image: facebook.com/tapirgaobjp) |
The valedictory function was graced by Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Ajay Tamta, who flagged off 20 new APSTS buses and lauded the transport service for its contribution to connecting remote regions of Arunachal Pradesh over the past five decades.
Addressing the gathering, Tamta described APSTS as the lifeline of the state, recalling that the service began with just two buses operating on the Khonsa–Naharkatia route. He said APSTS has since evolved into a crucial link connecting people, livelihoods and opportunities across the state’s difficult terrain.
The Union Minister highlighted the Centre’s commitment to the development of the Northeast under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He noted that improved road connectivity through projects such as National Highway-13 and infrastructure initiatives funded under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) and executed by NHAIDCL are transforming the region’s economic prospects. He also stressed the need to make public transport safer, more convenient and environmentally friendly through modern technologies, including GPS tracking and e-buses.
Member of Parliament Tapir Gao congratulated the APSTS family on completing 50 years of service and praised the organisation’s role in reaching some of the most remote corners of Arunachal Pradesh. He emphasized the importance of regular training for drivers, conductors and mechanics to ensure high standards of safety and efficiency.
In a major announcement, Transport Minister Ojing Tasing declared that a new bus terminal would be constructed in Khonsa as a Golden Jubilee gift to the people of Tirap district. He said the project would honour Khonsa’s historic significance as the birthplace of APSTS and further strengthen transportation infrastructure in the region.
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The celebration was attended by Advisor to Home and Transport Chakat Aboh, Advisor to Environment, Forest and Climate Change Wanglin Lowangdong, MLA Wanglam Sawin, senior government officials, community leaders, and members of the public.
The event concluded with a colourful cultural evening featuring performances by Wancho, Nocte, Tutsa, Tangsa and Ollo cultural troupes, along with local artists. The highlight of the evening was a performance by Indian Idol Season 13 winner Rishi Singh, who entertained the large crowd and brought the Golden Jubilee celebrations to a memorable close.
The overwhelming public participation throughout the three-day event reflected the deep connection between APSTS and the people of Arunachal Pradesh, as the transport service celebrated five decades of connecting communities and supporting development across the state.
