Arunachal CM denies using might for proposed mega dam on Siang River
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has denied allegations of using force to push for the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project. The government maintains that discussions are ongoing and open to public feedback, despite significant local opposition regarding environmental and displacement concerns.
Why it matters
The project is a strategic geopolitical countermeasure to China's massive hydropower development on the Yarlung Tsangpo, highlighting the tension between national security and local environmental rights.
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has trashed perceptions that the government was arm-twisting people to push a mega dam project on the Siang River, which flows as the Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet upstream.
He said the government remained open to discussions with villagers and organisations opposed to the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), whose capacity is expected to range between 11,000 megawatts and 12,500 MW.
The Chief Minister’s assertion that “there is nothing forceful” came days after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) registered a case against lawyer and anti-dam activist Bhanu Tatak for allegedly receiving foreign funds in violation of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, or FCRA.
“The discussions on the proposed project and its pre-feasibility report (PFR) have been ongoing for two years. Many villagers have come forward and signed memoranda of understanding in favour of the project,” Mr. Khandu said.
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