Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Addresses Opposition to Siang Upper Multipurpose Project
Government's Response to Project Opposition
File image of the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) in Arunachal Pradesh (Photo: AT)
Itanagar, Sept 21: In light of increasing opposition to the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, which is expected to generate between 11,000 and 12,500 MW, Chief Minister Pema Khandu has instructed the Chief Secretary to take necessary actions against government personnel who are allegedly inciting unrest or opposing the initiative.
Khandu emphasized, “We have directed the Chief Secretary to address the actions of any employees or officials who are causing disturbances regarding the project. It is the duty of government employees to adhere to the directives issued by the government.” This statement was made during a meeting with officials from the Siang and Upper Siang districts.
The Chief Minister highlighted the significance of the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project as a national endeavor and underscored the responsibility of government officials in educating local communities about its benefits.
“Officials and employees hold a vital position in our tribal society, and they have been informed about the project's importance to relay this information to local villagers, their families, and friends, as well as its contribution to national development,” he stated.
Khandu mentioned that the government plans to enhance its outreach efforts and that he intends to visit Siang and Upper Siang soon to engage with local employees and residents.
“We will increase awareness initiatives. I plan to visit Siang and Upper Siang shortly and will also engage with the local populace. The Deputy Chief Minister, who oversees hydropower, will organize camps in these areas if needed, and I will participate as well,” he added.
He encouraged the community to voice their concerns, saying, “We invite everyone to come forward with any questions or doubts they may have regarding the project. We are open to discussions and will provide answers.”
Regarding the presence of security forces in Siang and Upper Siang amidst the ongoing disputes, Khandu remarked that it is essential to involve the local population, as they are the rightful owners of the land.
“The land ultimately belongs to its people, and it is vital to include them in the conversation,” he noted, while also mentioning that, according to government assessments, approximately 75 to 80% of the population supports the project despite some opposition.
He urged the public to back and collaborate with the initiative.
The Siang region, predominantly inhabited by the indigenous Adi community, has experienced increased tensions regarding the proposed project, which is set to be implemented by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC).
Local indigenous groups have expressed worries about potential ecological damage, seismic hazards, and the risk of displacing villages and agricultural lands in the Siang Valley.
Previously, on September 13, the Upper Siang district administration instructed the village headman of Geku to organize a peace meeting involving all stakeholders due to escalating tensions surrounding the project. This decision followed protests against activities related to the project's pre-feasibility report, with villagers in Komkar and nearby areas also demonstrating against proposed drilling operations at Uggeng, one of the designated project sites.