Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu promised no forced implementation of the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project. The government wants peace. Khandu remains open to talks with residents and local organizations skeptical of the mega-dam. He insists the state has held discussions and reviewed the pre-feasibility report for two years already.
Some villagers already signed memoranda of understanding for the construction. Not everyone agrees. Opposition groups worry about displacement, environmental damage, cultural heritage loss, and potential seismic risks. Khandu addressed the pushback directly during a recent statement.
"There is nothing forceful," Khandu said. He confirmed he plans to visit the Upper Siang region soon. The Chief Minister intends to meet residents personally to settle fears. He invited anyone with doubts about the pre-feasibility report to bring them to the table. "The doors are always open from the government side. Any organisation, individual or group having any doubt regarding the PFR may come and discuss with the government. Our doors are open for discussion," he added.
The project represents a massive shift for the region. The state expects the dam to generate between 11,000 and 11,200 MW of power. Officials view the infrastructure as a vital national project. The government aims to boost hydropower capacity significantly if the work moves forward.
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