Arunachal Pradesh CM Acknowledges Support for Siang Upper Multipurpose Project

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has expressed gratitude to the residents of Riga village for their support in signing the MoU for the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project. Despite this, the project faces significant opposition from local communities concerned about displacement and environmental impacts. The Siang Indigenous Farmers Forum is leading the resistance, claiming that many affected villages are against the project. A rally is planned to protest the development, highlighting the ongoing tensions between the government and local residents over this major initiative.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 12, 2025, 14:32 IST

Support for Siang Upper Multipurpose Project

Itanagar, July 12: Chief Minister Pema Khandu of Arunachal Pradesh expressed gratitude to the residents of Riga village in Siang district for their backing in signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) related to the Pre-Feasibility Report for the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP).

A meeting took place in Itanagar on Friday evening, where Khandu met with representatives from Riga village, including Panchayati Raj and Rural Development Minister Ojing Tasing.

In a message shared on a micro-blogging platform, Khandu stated, "I extend my heartfelt thanks to the people of Riga for their support in signing the MoU for the Pre-Feasibility Report of the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), a significant step for the national interest."

He further emphasized, "Your trust motivates us. We are dedicated to meeting the developmental needs of the community. As one of the largest Adi villages in the Siang region, Riga plays a crucial role in our shared journey towards progress and prosperity."

Minister Ojing Tasing confirmed, "The community has indeed consented to the PFR for the Siang project."

Since the initial proposal for a mega-dam on the Siang emerged in 2017, it has faced resistance from local residents.

The project, which is projected to have an installed capacity of 11,000 MW, has encountered opposition due to fears of displacement, loss of livelihoods, and environmental repercussions.

Previously, there was significant resistance to the PFR survey. However, the state government has opted for a different approach—engaging in discussions to emphasize the project's advantages while addressing the concerns of those impacted.

The Siang Indigenous Farmers Forum, which is spearheading the opposition against the dam, argues that the project is futile, as residents from 27 affected villages are opposed to it.

According to Lamok Padun, president of the Siang Indigenous Farmers’ Forum (SIFF), "Only 25% of Riga is affected." He accused the state government of coercing BJP members from Riga to endorse the MoU.

Padun announced that the SIFF plans to organize a protest rally against the project in Geku, Upper Siang district, on July 14.