Arunachal Pradesh Gains Crucial Local Support for Mega Hydropower Project
Villages Back 11,000 MW Siang Project Amid Regional Water Concerns
Arunachal Pradesh’s ambitious hydropower goals have received a significant endorsement as 98 households from Riew village in Siang district have officially consented to the preliminary feasibility study for the colossal 11,000 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP).
Key Development
A crucial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was inked in Itanagar between the state administration and representatives of Riew village. The ceremony was graced by Deputy Chief Minister **Chowna Mein**, Cabinet Minister **Ojing Tasing**, Chief Secretary **Manish Kumar Gupta**, Siang Deputy Commissioner **PN Thungon**, and local dignitaries. Riew, the second-largest village in the Siang region, sees this agreement representing approximately 62% of its residents.
This development marks a notable shift in local sentiment, as the area had previously exhibited strong opposition to the large-scale dam proposal. Just earlier this month, over 300 households from Riga, the region’s largest village and a former vocal opponent of the dam, also provided their approval for the preliminary feasibility report.
“In a democratic country, development must include the people,” Mein said. “We have built this journey through dialogue, trust, and mutual respect.”
—Chowna Mein, Deputy Chief Minister and Power Minister
Chowna Mein lauded the development as an “important milestone” for Arunachal Pradesh’s green energy initiatives. He emphasized that the SUMP aligns with the broader #ViksitBharat vision for sustainable infrastructure and energy advancement.
Strategic Implications
This crucial backing arrives amidst growing regional apprehension following China’s commencement of construction on a substantial dam along the Yarlung Tsangpo River. Downstream, this river is known as the Brahmaputra, and China’s project has heightened concerns in both India and Bangladesh regarding water flow, ecological balance, and long-term river management strategies.
The Arunachal government views the SUMP as more than just a clean energy source; it is also perceived as a strategic and economic countermeasure to evolving regional dynamics. For instance, in 2023, India’s total electricity generation reached approximately 1.7 trillion kilowatt-hours, with hydropower contributing around 156 billion kilowatt-hours, underscoring the nation’s reliance on diverse energy sources (Central Electricity Authority of India, 2024).
Overcoming Past Resistance
The recent approvals signal a successful engagement strategy by the state government, moving from previous strong resistance to proactive support. This constructive approach is vital for unlocking the region’s immense hydropower potential and contributing to national energy security while addressing cross-border water resource management.