Arunachal Dam Project Sparks Local Outcry Over Siang Waterway

Indigenous groups and farmers demand transparency as China advances rival megaproject

A massive proposed hydropower project in Arunachal Pradesh’s Upper Siang district is facing significant local opposition, with indigenous organizations and farmers calling for greater transparency and consent. This resistance emerges as China progresses with its own substantial dam development on the Siang River, raising concerns about regional water security and environmental impact.

Resistance Mounts Against Siang Multipurpose Dam

Groups like the Siang Farmers’ Front (SIFF) and local farmers have publicly rejected a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the Siang Upper Multipurpose Dam. They are demanding clear communication and genuine consultation before any further steps are taken, highlighting a disconnect between government plans and community needs.

China’s Progress Fuels India’s Strategic Concerns

The push for the Siang dam by India is seen by some as a strategic countermeasure to China’s accelerating construction of a megaproject on the same river. This geopolitical dimension adds pressure, but the local resistance suggests that development plans may be hampered by a lack of grassroots support.

“China has already commenced construction of its dam. India’s planned response, including the Siang project, needs to address local issues effectively to gain traction and avoid similar pitfalls.”

—The Economic Times, Article Analysis

Concerns are growing about the potential downstream effects of these large-scale infrastructure projects. For instance, the Mekong River, which flows through multiple Southeast Asian countries, has experienced significant ecological disruption and reduced water flow due to upstream dam construction, impacting agriculture and livelihoods (World Wildlife Fund). This serves as a cautionary tale for the Siang River basin.

Divergent Local Views Emerge

While many local communities express concerns, a portion of the population has voiced support for the project. Approximately 98 households in Riew village have reportedly backed the 11,000 MW Siang Upper Hydropower Project, indicating a divided local sentiment regarding the dam’s potential benefits and drawbacks.

India’s Hydropower Ambitions Face Hurdles

India aims to develop significant hydropower capacity along the Siang River, with the 11,000 MW Siang Upper project being a cornerstone of this strategy. However, the project’s progress is being scrutinized for its ability to overcome local opposition and effectively compete with China’s more advanced initiatives.