Arunachal CM Promises Public Consultation On Siang Project
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu stated that the government will hold extensive consultations with affected communities if the Siang Upper Multi-Purpose Project moves past the feasibility stage.
Preliminary Feasibility Report Underway
The government is currently focused on completing the Preliminary Feasibility Report to check if the project can be built technically. CM Khandu noted that the report will take three months to finish during November, December and January. If experts decide the project cannot be built, no further steps will be taken.
National Security and Strategic Importance
Khandu explained that the project is important for national security and defence preparedness due to water infrastructure developments by China. He emphasized that the project must be studied scientifically rather than being accepted or rejected without proper assessment.
Consultation and Compensation Assurances
The Chief Minister assured that local communities, Gram Panchayats and villages will be consulted point by point if the project is found feasible. People will also receive fair compensation for land acquisition and proper relocation support along with basic infrastructure. Khandu added that the public can reject the project through the prescribed process if consultations show it should not proceed.