Arunachal Officials Discuss Huge Siang Dam Project
State government representatives and local indigenous groups have held preliminary talks about environmental safeguards and land rights for the proposed 11,200 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project. The National Hydroelectric Power Corporation is conducting pre-feasibility studies for the project. Government officials call this a strategic measure for water regulation and flood management amid upstream activities by China.
Government Statements On The Project
On October 5, 2026, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein stated the project is mainly for water storage rather than power generation. He emphasized that no final construction decisions have been made yet. He noted that the Pre-Feasibility Report is just an initial technical assessment with several stages of consultation and statutory clearance still pending. On October 7, 2026, Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Ojing Tasing reiterated that national security and community welfare must be balanced.
Opposition From Local Communities
Strong opposition comes from the Siang Indigenous Farmers Forum and the Adi community. The Adi people regard the Siang River as sacred and have invoked customary governance to express concerns. They worry about potential displacement and the loss of ancestral land. These protests follow unrest that included an attack on an lawmaker residence on September 30 and alleged lathi charges against protesters in Uggeng village on October 4. In September 2024, the Siang Deputy Commissioner issued an order prohibiting government employees from joining protests.
Expert Concerns And Official Stand
A collective of 114 experts has called for a suspension of the project. Experts cite its location in a high earthquake zone and potential violations of forest and biodiversity laws. Chief Minister Pema Khandu has maintained that the project will only move forward if the pre-feasibility study proves its technical viability.