Adi Community Demands Cancellation of Siang Upper Multipurpose Project in Arunachal Pradesh

The Adi community in Arunachal Pradesh is urging the State Government to cancel the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, citing fears of flooding, loss of agricultural land, and threats to their cultural heritage. The apex body of the community, ABK-U, has raised concerns about the project's impact on local ecology and livelihoods. They demand a halt to the project and the withdrawal of security forces in the region. Chief Minister Pema Khandu has expressed openness to discussions, encouraging residents to voice their concerns. This situation highlights the ongoing tension between development projects and local community rights.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 23, 2026, 11:27 IST

Concerns Over Siang Upper Multipurpose Project

File image of the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) in Arunachal Pradesh (Photo: AT)

Itanagar, Sept 23: A group representing the Adi community in Arunachal Pradesh has called on the State Government to promptly abandon the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP). They argue that this large-scale dam could inundate villages and farmland, jeopardizing the community's cultural heritage, traditions, and the ecological balance of the Siang Valley.

This demand was articulated by the Adi Bane Kebang-United (ABK-U), the leading organization of the Adi community, during a press briefing at the Arunachal Press Club.

ABK-U president Thomas Borang emphasized that the Government should not use the notion of 'national interest' as a rationale for a project that could inflict significant distress on local residents.

During a consultative meeting held on September 16 in Geku, Upper Siang, the Adi community adopted a four-point resolution. This included calls for the cancellation of the SUMP proposal, annulment of agreements related to its pre-feasibility report (PFR), withdrawal of additional security forces in Siang and Upper Siang districts, and the reinstatement of village leaders who were allegedly suspended for opposing the project.

The ABK-U also raised concerns regarding the Government's evaluation of support for activities linked to the PFR.

Borang claimed that some individuals were encouraged to sign memorandums of understanding (MoUs) by being promised benefits related to poultry farming and fruit cultivation.

The SUMP, which is designed to generate approximately 11,000 MW of hydropower, is being developed for energy production and water management, alongside strategic water security issues associated with the Siang river.

The Government has asserted that the project holds national significance and has emphasized the importance of involving local communities in the process.

However, many villagers have voiced their opposition, citing fears of potential flooding of homes, agricultural areas, and historical sites, as well as the loss of livelihoods, ancestral lands, and cultural identity.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu stated on Monday, following a consultative meeting, that the Government is receptive to discussions and encouraged individuals with concerns about the project to reach out to the authorities for further information.