Itanagar, Oct 14 Arunachal Pradesh’s mega Siang hydropower project, which has been facing protests over land-related issues and environmental concerns, has nonetheless kindled hopes of better road connectivity, jobs for the youth and improved access to social services for people living along the river.
For a region where difficult terrain and limited connectivity have long posed challenges to development, the 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) has opened up a wider debate on whether the potential benefits of a major infrastructure initiative can be realised, while protecting the interests of locals and the environment.
“People are naturally worried when they hear about a project of this scale. But, we also have to think about what opportunities it could bring. The youth need jobs, better connectivity and more opportunities to stay and build their lives here,” said Oyin, a young girl from Boleng town in the district.
The Siang River has shaped the lives, culture and landscape of communities along its banks for generations, she said.
The project is currently at the Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) stage, which is intended to assess the technical viability. The state government has maintained that the ongoing exercise does not tantamount to a decision to construct the project.
Protesters have been demanding an immediate stop to the ongoing PFR activities and survey work for the proposed project. They have also sought withdrawal of security forces deployed in areas likely to be affected by the project.
The Arunachal Pradesh government has maintained that the mega project would drive economic and social growth, generate employment opportunities for the youth, and strengthen water and energy security for the state and the nation.
M Tame, a resident of Parong village in Siang district, said development work and the preservation of local identity should not be viewed as conflicting objectives.
“We should not assume that development means losing everything. If there is proper planning and local people are included, development can also mean better schools, healthcare, roads, communication and opportunities for our children,” he said.
Several people living in areas that could be affected by the project’s construction said they want clear information on land, rehabilitation, livelihoods, environmental consequences and the long-term impact on their communities.
Siang Deputy Commissioner Tayi Taggu said the project would be a boon for people of the Siang belt, and that they “should support government-backed initiatives”.
At a review meeting in Yingkiong last month, State Panchayati Raj and Rural Development Minister Ojing Tasing, who also heads the Empowered High-Level Committee on SUMP, called for continuous public engagement, transparency, and systematic documentation of feedback from local communities.
Environmental activist Bhanu Tatak said people’s consent was crucial even at the pre-feasibility stage.
She also alleged that the deployment of paramilitary personnel, and FIRs and legal proceedings against those protesting against the project had created a trust deficit among people.
“It is hard to trust the state government now due to its lack of sensibility,” Tatak said.
Aluk, who identified herself by her first name, said the debate should not turn into a division between people seeking development and those worried about its consequences.
“We want our children to have a future here. If a project can contribute to that future, people will want to understand it. The important thing is that development should happen with people, not simply around them,” she said.
(PTI News)
