Assam Chief Minister Addresses Opposition to Kulsi Hydel Project

In a recent statement, Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma declared that the Kulsi Hydel Project would not proceed if local residents formally oppose it. He criticized the prevalent culture of protests in the state, advocating for written applications instead. The project, aimed at generating 55 MW of power and irrigating 26,000 hectares, has faced increasing resistance from border communities concerned about environmental impacts. While the government sees potential benefits, the local opposition poses a significant challenge to its advancement.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 29, 2025, 14:51 IST

Government's Stance on Kulsi Hydel Project

Guwahati, June 29: On Sunday, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the state would halt the Kulsi Hydel Project if local residents formally express their opposition in writing.

During a press conference in Dharapur, Sarma emphasized that protests were unnecessary if the community does not support the 55 MW hydroelectric initiative.

He stated, "If the community is against the project, they can submit an application. Why resort to protests?"

Sarma criticized what he termed a "protest culture" in Assam, arguing that it often fosters the emergence of leaders rather than solutions and adversely affects the state.

He reiterated that the project would not advance without public approval, recalling previous discussions with Meghalaya's Chief Minister Conrad Sangma. "The Kulsi hydel power project was intended to aid local irrigation needs," he noted.

Initially launched in 1997, the Kulsi multipurpose project is now recognized as a National Project, with an estimated budget of Rs 1,454.95 crore (as of 2018).

With a capacity to generate 55 MW, the project also aims to irrigate 26,000 hectares across the Brahmaputra Basin, with essential infrastructure located along the Assam-Meghalaya border.

Earlier this month, both Sarma and Sangma agreed to collaborate on the project, contingent on local consent. However, opposition from border communities has intensified recently.

On June 27, the Assam and Meghalaya Joint Resistance Committee held a meeting in Ukiam as part of ongoing protests.

Residents have voiced concerns regarding the environmental and livelihood effects of the proposed dam on the Kulsi River, which traverses ecologically sensitive regions.

While the government argues that the project could yield long-term advantages in power generation and irrigation, the local opposition remains a significant challenge.