The Siang project debate has intensified in Arunachal Pradesh, with Pasighat West MLA Ninong Ering backing large dams and calling for an informed approach to the proposed project.
Ering has maintained support for hydropower development while stressing the need to consider technical, environmental and community concerns. His position comes as protests continue in Upper Siang over the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP).
Siang project draws support and opposition
The proposed SUMP has an estimated capacity of around 11,000 MW. The project is currently at the pre-feasibility report (PFR) stage, rather than the construction stage. The PFR is intended to examine whether the project is technically and economically viable and assess its wider implications.
Ering has previously backed dam construction and the use of Arunachal Pradesh’s hydropower potential. In July 2024, he supported storage dams as a way to address flood risks and said people opposing dams should be consulted before projects move forward.
More recently, Ering attended community meetings linked to PFR-related agreements. In February, he was present when residents of Karko village signed an MoU supporting preparation of the PFR. Reports from the event described his emphasis on a scientific, transparent and consultative approach.
Siang project remains at study stage
The current focus remains on gathering information rather than beginning construction. Several villages have signed MoUs supporting PFR activities, while other communities have strongly opposed surveys and drilling.
In June, 110 households from Geku signed an MoU supporting preparation of the PFR. The development received backing from Chief Minister Pema Khandu, who said the project has strategic and water-management dimensions in addition to power generation.
However, the process has also faced sustained resistance. Villagers in Geku and nearby areas continued protests in September, opposing the deployment of security personnel for PFR activities and demanding that the proposed project be scrapped.
Chief Minister Khandu said this week that the government was not rushing the project beyond the feasibility stage and that the immediate focus remained on completing the PFR.
Siang project faces strong local concerns
Opponents have raised concerns about possible environmental, social and seismic impacts. The Adi Bané Kébang-United recently submitted a memorandum seeking an immediate halt to PFR activities and said local communities were not supporting the project.
Human Rights of Arunachal has also called for greater consultation with affected communities and raised concerns about survey and drilling activities. The organisation has sought transparency, safety assessments and dialogue involving residents and other stakeholders.
Meanwhile, protests have affected work connected with the PFR. Authorities imposed restrictions on gatherings in parts of Upper Siang after citing concerns about possible law-and-order problems linked to the project.
Strategic concerns shape the debate
Supporters of the Siang project also point to the wider strategic and water-security context. The Siang is the downstream continuation of the Yarlung Tsangpo, which flows through Tibet before entering Arunachal Pradesh.
Ering has previously raised concerns about China’s large dam project on the Yarlung Tsangpo. In the Arunachal Pradesh Assembly in 2024, he argued that India needed adequate storage infrastructure to address possible flood risks and protect the Siang region.
The state government has similarly linked the proposed infrastructure to flood management and water security. However, these objectives remain part of the broader debate over the project’s technical feasibility and potential effects on communities.
Siang project debate moves toward scrutiny
The disagreement over the Siang project now involves two competing priorities: the proposed benefits of hydropower and water management, and concerns about environmental risks, livelihoods and community rights.
For Ering and other supporters, detailed studies can provide evidence before any final decision. For opponents, the PFR process itself raises concerns about how local consent and participation are being handled.
The government’s current position keeps the project at the study stage. As PFR activities continue, the debate is likely to remain focused on technical findings, environmental assessments, community participation and the long-term implications for the Siang valley.
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