Itanagar: The Subansiri Lower Project Implementation Committee (SULPIC) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC). Representing families affected by the 2,000 MW Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project, the group plans to launch an indefinite strike at the project site in Arunachal Pradesh beginning June 9.
SULPIC submitted a memorandum to the NHPC Executive Director at Dollungmukh, stating that years of negotiations since 2009 have failed to resolve their concerns. The committee claims authorities have neglected statutory obligations, environmental safeguards, and court directions. Their core demands include the formal recognition of the Bini, Kina, and Nido clans as affected families and the designation of Persin Block as a project-affected area.
The committee is also calling for the revocation of the project's No Objection Certificate, citing alleged non-compliance with National Green Tribunal directives. SULPIC contends that the original land acquisition process was flawed, relying on aerial surveys rather than ground assessments, which led to inadequate compensation for over 1,500 hectares of land.
Environmental concerns remain a focal point of the protest. The committee points to a recent field inspection suggesting that backflow from the dam has already impacted surrounding land. They are demanding the immediate clearance of standing trees in the submergence zone and a new DGPS survey, warning that decomposing biomass could damage water quality and local ecosystems if left unaddressed.
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