News Reporter
Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has reaffirmed that no hydropower or dam project will proceed in the state without the explicit consent of the people. Addressing widespread concerns over the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project in the Siang district, he emphasized the importance of public approval in such initiatives.
“If you don’t want a dam or a hydropower project, there won’t be one. Chapter closed,” Khandu assured while addressing a gathering during the Thanksgiving program of Panchayati Raj Minister Ojing Tasing, following his electoral victory.
Clearing the Air: Multipurpose, Not Just Hydropower
Khandu clarified that the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project is not solely a hydropower initiative but a project of national significance conceptualized by the Government of India and NITI Aayog. He pointed out that misinformation was being spread to mislead villagers, despite the project not even reaching its initial survey and investigation stages.
“Even I, as the Chief Minister, or NHPC, do not have exact details about the project’s power capacity. How can others claim it is 12,500 MW, 11,000 MW, or 10,000 MW?” he questioned.
Addressing Concerns for the Siang River and Adi Community
The chief minister underlined the project’s primary objective: safeguarding the Siang River (Ane Siang) and supporting the Adi community, which has deep cultural and historical ties with the river. Hydropower generation, he noted, is merely a by-product of the multipurpose project.
He also highlighted the strategic importance of the project, citing potential threats from China’s 60,000 MW hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo River, which could severely impact the Siang River’s flow in Arunachal Pradesh.
“In winters, you might find yourself crossing the mighty Siang on foot if we do not prepare for such scenarios,” he warned. Sudden water releases by China’s dams could also lead to devastating floods in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Bangladesh, he added.
Economic Potential of Hydropower in Arunachal
Khandu emphasized that Arunachal Pradesh holds nearly 50% of India’s hydropower potential. Existing MoUs for projects generating 12,500 MW could contribute approximately ₹10,000 crore annually to the state’s revenue, excluding the Siang project.
Democratic Process and Transparency Assured
Dispelling fears of forced implementation, Khandu reiterated that Arunachal Pradesh values democracy and public trust. “We do not impose projects on our people. Every detail, including the dam’s location, height, and submergence area, will be finalized only after detailed surveys and public hearings,” he said.
He urged residents to seek clarifications and engage in discussions, emphasizing that the government is not in a rush to execute the project. He also encouraged the committee led by former minister Tamio Taga to actively address villagers’ concerns.
“Take your time, clear your doubts, and be informed. We are here to work with you, not against you,” Khandu concluded.
The Siang Upper Multipurpose Project is envisioned to regulate water flow, prevent floods, and ensure the region’s sustainable development while addressing the ecological and cultural concerns of the local communities.
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