Arunachal CM Promises Public Consultation On Siang Dam Project

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has stated that the government will hold extensive talks with affected communities if the Siang Upper Multi-Purpose Project goes ahead after the feasibility stage.

Focus On Preliminary Feasibility Report

Speaking at Boleng in Siang district, Chief Minister Pema Khandu explained that the immediate priority is to complete the Preliminary Feasibility Report to check if the project can be built technically. He noted that the report will take three months to finish, covering November, December and January. The report will check technical feasibility in Seismic Zone V and examine protection against water release from upstream.

National Security And China Factor

Khandu stated that the project has wider strategic and security implications for India. He mentioned a large water infrastructure project announced by China in 2021 and said India and Bangladesh had asked for details which were not accepted by China. The Chief Minister emphasized that the project must be studied scientifically rather than being accepted or rejected without proper assessment.

Public Consultation And Compensation

The Chief Minister assured that if the project passes the feasibility stage, the government will consult Gram Panchayats and local villagers point by point. He added that Social Impact Assessment, Environment Impact Assessment and the Detailed Project Report will follow applicable laws. Khandu clarified that land acquisition, asset assessment and relief and rehabilitation are separate components, and affected people will receive proper compensation and infrastructure in relocated areas.