Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein has reiterated the government’s willingness to hold dialogue with stakeholders over the proposed 11,200 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, amid protests and concerns over environmental impacts, village displacement and community rights.
Amid continuing protests and growing opposition to the proposed 11,200 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein has reiterated that the state government remains open to dialogue with all stakeholders, including community organisations, student bodies, civil society groups and individuals who have raised concerns over the mega hydropower project.
Mein emphasised that differences surrounding the proposed project should be addressed through constructive engagement, informed discussions and mutual understanding. He also highlighted the importance of expert consultations, technical assessments and public awareness to ensure that stakeholders have access to accurate information about the project and its potential implications.
The Deputy Chief Minister, who holds the Power and Non-Conventional Energy Resources portfolios, made these remarks while addressing the valedictory function of the 25th Silver Jubilee celebrations of the All Palin, Chambang, Yangte, Gangte and Tarak-Lengdi Students’ Union (APCYGTSU) at Palin in Kra Daadi district. Ministers Balo Raja and Ojing Tasing were also present at the programme.
The silver jubilee celebration was organised under the theme “Honouring the Past, Charting the Future”, marking 25 years of the students’ union and recognising its contributions to the student community.
Addressing the gathering, Mein called upon young people to channel their energy, knowledge and talents towards building a peaceful, progressive and developed Arunachal Pradesh. He highlighted the important role of youth in shaping the state’s future and encouraged them to contribute positively to society and the overall development of the state.
Speaking about Arunachal Pradesh’s economic potential, the Deputy Chief Minister highlighted its abundant natural resources, particularly hydropower, minerals and mining resources. He said the state had made progress in the hydropower sector and stressed the importance of responsibly utilising available resources to strengthen the economy, generate employment and create greater development opportunities for local communities.
His remarks on the Siang project come amid sustained opposition from several local organisations and community groups, which have expressed apprehensions over the proposed mega dam and its possible consequences for the region.
The proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project is expected to generate approximately 11,200 MW of electricity. However, concerns have been raised regarding possible displacement, environmental consequences, loss of ancestral land and the impact on the traditional livelihoods of communities living in the Siang Valley.
The controversy has prompted the state government to emphasise transparency, wider public consultation and engagement with affected communities before proceeding with further decisions.
Earlier, Chief Minister Pema Khandu had also stressed the importance of open discussions and transparency regarding the proposed project. As part of the consultation process, he convened an all-party meeting of legislators to discuss the Preliminary Feasibility Report (PFR) and examine different aspects of the proposed mega project.
The discussions covered national security considerations, environmental concerns and the apprehensions of residents of the Siang Valley. Khandu subsequently held another meeting with representatives of the Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum (AITF) and various Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) to discuss issues and concerns associated with the project.
In a post on social media platform X, the Chief Minister said the discussions had covered national security, environmental concerns and the concerns of local people. He reiterated that the government’s priority was to protect national interests while respecting the rights and aspirations of people living in the Siang Valley.
In another social media post, Khandu expressed concern that misinformation and misconceptions surrounding the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project were contributing to apprehensions among residents. He stressed the importance of making relevant information available and encouraging informed public discussions.
Despite the government’s repeated assurances about consultation and dialogue, opposition to the project continues. Several local organisations have maintained their resistance, citing concerns about the possible impact on villages, the environment and the traditional way of life of indigenous communities.
Arunachal Pradesh Congress president Bosiram Siram, referring to concerns raised by protesting organisations, claimed that the proposed project could result in the submergence of 27 villages following dam construction. The claim reflects the scale of apprehensions being raised by sections of the local population over the project’s possible consequences.
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The government has maintained that discussions with stakeholders and expert consultations are important for addressing concerns and developing a clearer understanding of the project.
Mein’s latest statement reiterates the administration’s willingness to engage with all concerned groups as discussions over the proposed 11,200 MW hydropower project continue. The debate remains centred on balancing the state’s development potential and energy requirements with environmental considerations and the rights, interests and aspirations of communities in the Siang Valley.
