Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has stated that the government will hold extensive consultations with affected communities if the Siang Upper Multi-Purpose Project moves past the feasibility stage.
The Chief Minister said the immediate priority is completing the Preliminary Feasibility Report to check if the project can be built in Seismic Zone V. He noted this report will take three months across November, December and January to check technical parameters and water protection levels. Khandu added that if experts find the project cannot be built, the process will stop.
Khandu mentioned the project has wider national security and defence implications concerning water infrastructure developments by China. He stated that India and Bangladesh previously sought details from China regarding water-sharing concerns without success. The Chief Minister stressed that the project needs scientific and technical examination rather than a rushed decision.
The government assured that Gram Panchayats and local villages will be consulted point by point if the project is found technically feasible. Khandu clarified that land acquisition, assessment of assets and relief measures are separate components. Affected villages will be consulted regarding relocation, and landowners will receive compensation according to applicable rules. He also added that the project could see an investment of up to Rs 2 lakh crore and create local employment opportunities.
