Arunachal CM promises talks on 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 goes beyond the feasibility stage.
The Chief Minister explained that the immediate priority is completing the Preliminary Feasibility Report to check if the project is technically possible. He noted that if experts decide the project cannot be built, there will be no further process. The report is expected to take three months across November, December and January.
Project Feasibility and National Security
Khandu stated that the project must be examined scientifically and technically rather than being accepted or rejected without assessment. He mentioned that the project has strategic and security implications for India, noting large water infrastructure projects announced by China.
Consultation and Public Hearings
The Chief Minister assured that if the project passes the feasibility stage, the government will engage with local communities and village councils. Social Impact Assessment, Environment Impact Assessment and a Detailed Project Report will be prepared according to the law. He also confirmed that people will have the opportunity to reject the project through the prescribed process if public hearings establish it should not proceed.