Amid persistent local demonstrations regarding the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu visited Boleng and Yingkiong on Tuesday, advocating sustained engagement as the administration moves ahead with preliminary technical reviews.
Empowered High-Level Committee Convenes in Yingkiong
During his visit, Khandu chaired the inaugural session of the Empowered High-Level Committee for SUMP at Yingkiong, taking stock of field arrangements for the proposed pre-feasibility report (PFR) survey across Siang and Upper Siang districts. Formed by the state Cabinet, the specialized panel operates under the leadership of Minister Ojing Tasing. Its primary remit is to coordinate and oversee the PFR survey, an initial operational assessment aimed at establishing the technical viability and broader implications of the venture.
Feasibility Survey Does Not Equal Final Clearance
Addressing apprehensions surrounding the initiative, Khandu clarified that undertaking the PFR does not equate to granting final clearance, nor does it guarantee the immediate construction of the proposed hydropower infrastructure. He emphasized that the assessment process must maintain total transparency, remaining comprehensive while actively incorporating the reservations of local indigenous communities along with the fragile geographical and ecological conditions of the valley.
Reflecting on the deliberations, Khandu wrote on X that he chaired the first meeting of the committee in Yingkiong to supervise the PFR survey. Pointing out the necessity of mutual consultation, Khandu said,
“Dialogue matters,”while underscoring that public consultation must remain central to shaping the long-term future of the Siang belt. He noted that the government has an obligation to act prudently today, as present policy choices carry significant consequences for generations to come.
18-Year Wait for an 11,000 MW Strategic Asset
The SUMP initiative has been formulated as a mega-scale power generation and water resource management project featuring a projected installed capacity of roughly 11,000 MW. The central government accorded it the status of a National Project back in 2008. Despite that recognition, the development has stayed stalled for nearly 18 years owing to multiple administrative, environmental, and socio-political factors.
According to the state administration, the completed project holds significant promise for bolstering regional energy and water security, moderating severe seasonal floods across the lower Siang-Brahmaputra river basin, unlocking major employment avenues, and driving sustainable socio-economic growth across the state.
