Arunachal CM Advocates Indigenous Participation in Siang Hydro Project Amid Rising Local Support

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has taken a proactive step toward inclusive and sustainable development by directing officials to ensure active participation of indigenous communities in the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP). This large-scale hydropower initiative, with an installed capacity of 11,000 MW, is planned on the Siang River and is expected to play a transformative role in the region’s energy landscape.

During a high-level review meeting in Itanagar, attended by Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Chief Secretary Manish Kumar Gupta, and senior officials from the hydro power development department, Khandu stressed the importance of incorporating local voices and community feedback at every stage of the planning and implementation process. This approach aligns with his government’s emphasis on participatory development, especially for projects that have significant social and environmental impact.

The push for community involvement comes at a time when grassroots support for the project appears to be gaining momentum. Villagers from Riga and Pangkang (Kumku), both situated within the affected area of the project, have already signed memorandums of understanding (MoUs) in support of the pre-feasibility report (PFR) for the SUMP. These endorsements are seen as early indicators of public willingness to engage constructively, provided that their interests and concerns are addressed transparently.

Originally proposed by NHPC (National Hydroelectric Power Corporation) in 2009, the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project is envisioned as a run-of-the-river hydroelectric facility. Such a design is considered more environmentally friendly than traditional dam-based projects because it minimizes the extent of river impoundment. Nonetheless, SUMP is projected to include a massive reservoir with a storage capacity of nearly 9 billion cubic metres, potentially making it one of India’s largest. In addition to generating power, the project is expected to provide irrigation benefits and contribute to flood control mechanisms in the region.

Given the scale and implications of the project, Chief Minister Khandu emphasized the need for detailed community consultations going forward. These consultations are expected to cover various dimensions, including environmental safeguards, land acquisition, compensation, cultural heritage preservation, and long-term livelihood options for displaced or impacted families.

The government’s approach indicates a clear shift from top-down development models to a more inclusive and responsive planning strategy. By involving local stakeholders from the outset, the administration aims to avoid future resistance, ensure smoother implementation, and generate shared benefits for both the state and its indigenous populations.

The review meeting also underlined the importance of maintaining transparency throughout the project lifecycle. Officials have been instructed to regularly communicate project updates to communities, address grievances in a timely manner, and collaborate with civil society groups to foster trust.

In conclusion, the Chief Minister’s directive to prioritize indigenous participation in the SUMP project marks a significant milestone in hydropower planning in Arunachal Pradesh. As the project advances, the government plans to strike a balance between harnessing renewable energy and safeguarding local interests, with a strong emphasis on sustainable and inclusive development.