Urgent Uprising: Arunachal Pradesh Unites Against Devastating 12,500 MW Hydropower Project
Hundreds of residents protested in Arunachal Pradesh’s Upper Siang district on Saturday against the proposed 12,500-MW hydropower project. Organized by the Siang Indigenous Farmers Forum (SIFF) in Geku village, the demonstration opposed preliminary studies for the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP). Approximately 600 locals, including members of the Adi community, rallied around 8 a.m., voicing their discontent toward the National Hydro Electric Power Corporation (NHPC) and Chief Minister Pema Khandu. The protest, deemed peaceful by Geku’s Extra Assistant Commissioner A Ratan, concluded at 1 p.m. without incident.
NHPC has identified three potential dam sites in Upper Siang and Siang districts: one between Parong and Deging villages, another at Ugeng near Riga village, and a site between Ditte-Dime and Geku. Surveys are underway to assess feasibility. SIFF General Secretary Donggo Libang highlighted the project’s threat to the land, environment, and local lifestyle, citing concerns over submerged rice fields and community displacement that could strip indigenous people of their rights.
Previously, the Upper Siang district administration issued warnings to government employees and village heads involved in anti-dam activities. Additionally, several opposition groups held a rally in Dite Dime, Siang district, on August 31, underscoring fears of environmental damage and displacement.
While the government promotes the hydropower project as vital for enhancing regional infrastructure and economic growth, local communities remain staunchly opposed, prioritizing the preservation of their land and traditional way of life over developmental promises. The tension between development ambitions and indigenous rights continues to fuel debate in Arunachal Pradesh, highlighting the delicate balance between progress and preservation.
Original Story https://www.indiatodayne.in/assam/story/protest-in-arunachal-pradesh-against-12500-mw-hydropower-project-1102540-2024-10-05?utm_source=rssfeed
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