The proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) has faced fresh opposition in Arunachal Pradesh. The Adi Bane Kebang-United (ABK-U) has demanded the immediate scrapping of the project.
The proposed project has a capacity of around 11,000 MW. Authorities plan to develop it on the Siang River. The project aims to generate hydropower and support water management.
However, the Adi community has raised several concerns. These include displacement, loss of farmland and environmental damage. The community also fears the loss of ancestral land and cultural heritage.
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ABK-U Adopts Four-Point Resolution
The ABK-U held a consultative meeting at Geku in Upper Siang district on September 16. During the meeting, members adopted a four-point resolution against the project.
The organisation first demanded the immediate cancellation of the SUMP. It also sought the cancellation of agreements linked to the project’s pre-feasibility report (PFR).
The organisation raised another demand over security deployment. It called for the withdrawal of additional security personnel from Siang and Upper Siang districts.
The ABK-U also demanded the reinstatement of village heads who faced suspension after opposing the project. It further called for an immediate stop to PFR activities in areas where local communities have raised objections.
Community Raises Displacement Concerns
Displacement remains one of the biggest concerns for the Adi community. The proposed project could affect villages, farmland and other areas along the Siang and its tributaries.
The ABK-U has identified several areas that could face an impact. These include Yingkiong and Geku in Upper Siang district.
The community also fears the loss of agricultural land. Many local families depend on farming and natural resources for their livelihoods.
The issue also carries cultural significance. The Adi community maintains strong traditional ties with the Siang River and surrounding land. Any major change to the landscape could affect these cultural connections.
Environmental Risks Add to Concerns
The Adi organisation has also raised questions about the environmental impact of the project. The proposed dam would involve major construction in a sensitive Himalayan region.
Local groups have also raised concerns about seismic activity. Arunachal Pradesh lies in an earthquake-prone region. The groups therefore want authorities to examine possible risks before moving ahead with the project.
The Siang Indigenous Farmers’ Forum Youth Wing has also expressed concerns about the project’s location and possible risks to downstream communities.
These groups have called for detailed studies and wider consultations before authorities take further steps.
Dispute Over Pre-Feasibility Activities
The preparation of the project’s Pre-Feasibility Report has become another major point of disagreement.
The ABK-U has questioned the process used to engage local villagers. The organisation has alleged that some villagers signed memoranda of understanding (MoUs) connected with PFR activities.
The group has also stressed the importance of traditional Adi institutions. It wants authorities to respect the community’s customary decision-making system.
The organisation has called for a halt to PFR activities until the government addresses the concerns of affected communities.
Government Seeks Dialogue
The Arunachal Pradesh government has continued to describe the project as important for the state and the country. At the same time, Chief Minister Pema Khandu has called for dialogue with local communities.
Khandu has urged people with concerns to approach the government. He has also stressed the need for better public awareness about the project’s objectives and technical details.
The government faces the challenge of balancing development goals with local concerns. The debate involves hydropower generation, environmental protection, land rights and community interests.
Siang Project Faces Continued Opposition
Arunachal Pradesh has significant hydropower potential. The state government has repeatedly highlighted hydropower as an important part of its development plans.
The proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, however, continues to face opposition from sections of the Adi community.
The ABK-U wants the government to cancel the project and stop related activities. Government authorities, meanwhile, continue to support discussions about its future.
Further consultations could determine the next stage of the project. The government will need to address concerns over land, livelihoods, environmental risks and indigenous rights as the debate continues.
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