Arunachal CM Assures Talks on Upper Siang Project
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has stated that his government will hold extensive consultations with affected communities if the Siang Upper Multi-Purpose Project moves past the feasibility stage.
During an interaction in Boleng, Khandu explained that the immediate priority is completing the Preliminary Feasibility Report to check if the project can be built technically, especially in Arunachal Pradesh’s Seismic Zone V. He noted that the report will take three months to finish, covering November, December, and January.
Strategic Importance and Scientific Assessment
The Chief Minister said the project is important for national security and defence preparedness due to large water infrastructure plans announced by China in 2021. He added that the proposal must be examined scientifically rather than being accepted or rejected without proper assessment.
Public Consultation and Compensation
Khandu assured that if the project goes beyond the feasibility stage, the government will engage directly with local communities, Gram Panchayats, and villages. Social Impact Assessment, Environment Impact Assessment, and Detailed Project Reports will follow applicable laws. He added that affected villagers will be consulted on relocation, and landowners will receive compensation according to rules.