Downstream Alliance Sets 10-Day Deadline for Dibang Dam Demands

Guwahati: A joint alliance of communities from Assam and Arunachal Pradesh wants action. Formed on October 17, 2026, the Dibang Dam Assam-Arunachal Downstream Action Alliance issued a 10-day ultimatum to both state governments. They demand Project Affected Family status for all people living downstream of the 2,880 MW Dibang Multipurpose Project.

The group wants public hearings in Tinsukia and Dibrugarh. They also need guide walls, embankments, and protection walls built along the stretch below the dam site in Arunachal Pradesh. To justify this, the group pointed to an August 26, 2024, memo from the Arunachal government. The alliance stated, "It would be imperative if the downstream protection measures are carried out prior to commissioning of dam."

Assam should get 12 percent free power. This request reflects similar deals in Arunachal Pradesh and covers risks like flooding or potential dam failures. It also accounts for the heavy use of Assam roads to move project machinery and supplies. The coalition warned of a blockade if officials ignore these terms. They plan to stop all plant, tools, and construction materials from entering their territory if the government fails to respond within 10 days.

Tensions remain high over hydropower across the region. Public pushback recently stalled the 11,200 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project in the Siang Valley. The government recently released four detainees in a bid to open dialogue, but the Dibang alliance is now pressing for concrete results.