The Arunachal Pradesh cabinet on Wednesday approved the formation of a high-level committee to oversee and coordinate the pre-feasibility report (PFR) survey for the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP).
The committee will focus on facilitating communication with residents of Siang and Upper Siang districts and ensuring that survey-related activities are carried out in a transparent, peaceful and people-centric manner.
The panel will be chaired by Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Ojing Tasing. Chief Minister’s adviser and Yingkiong-Tuting MLA Alo Libang, along with Geku-Mariyang legislator Oni Panyang, will serve as members.
The cabinet said the concerns, welfare and aspirations of families likely to be affected by the project, as well as those of local communities, would remain an important part of the process.
The decision comes amid continuing opposition from sections of the local population to the proposed project. Some residents and local organisations have raised concerns over possible displacement, loss of ancestral land and livelihoods, environmental consequences and the safety of a large dam.
The Siang Upper Multipurpose Project is a proposed 11,000-megawatt hydropower and storage project on the Siang River. The Centre and state government have highlighted power generation, flood moderation and water security among its potential objectives, along with investment and employment opportunities.
Opposition to the project intensified this month when villagers from Komkar and neighbouring areas protested against proposed drilling and PFR activities at Uggeng, one of the locations being studied.
The Siang Indigenous Farmers’ Forum (SIFF) has also raised objections to the deployment of security personnel in areas associated with the project. The organisation has sought the withdrawal of security forces, arguing that the project should proceed through consultation and consent.
The state government has meanwhile increased its engagement with local stakeholders. Chief Minister Pema Khandu recently held discussions with officials from Siang and Upper Siang districts and stressed dialogue on the project’s technical and developmental aspects.
The cabinet also referred to concerns over what it described as “misinformation and disinformation” about the project. It said sustained engagement with residents would be necessary to ensure the peaceful conduct of the survey.
The government reiterated that development efforts would take into account local traditions and community interests. The newly formed committee is expected to play a key role in coordinating the next phase of the survey process and communication with affected communities.
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