What Is the Status of the 11,000 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project Review by Arunachal CM?
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Synopsis
Arunachal Pradesh's Chief Minister Pema Khandu recently reviewed the ambitious Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, aiming for a capacity of 11,000 MW, while ensuring local support is prioritized. This project is seen as critical in addressing flooding and environmental concerns in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Siang Upper Multipurpose Project aims for 11,000 MW capacity.
- Local support is vital for project success.
- Project addresses flooding and environmental issues.
- Riga villagers signed an MoU for cooperation.
- Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project nearing completion.
Itanagar, July 21 (NationPress) Arunachal Pradesh's Chief Minister Pema Khandu conducted a review meeting on the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), which boasts an impressive generation capacity of 11,000 MW.
In a post shared on X, he noted: "Today, I held a review session regarding the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) alongside HDCM Shri Chowna Mein, Chief Secretary Shri Manish Kumar Gupta, and senior officials from the Hydro Power Department."
"I am pleased to hear that residents from the Siang and Upper Siang districts are expressing their support for the Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR). I have instructed the administration and the department to work closely with local tribes and ensure their input is valued at every stage,” stated Khandu.
In a significant development, after several protests, the residents of Riga village in the Siang district signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on July 11 for the Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) of the proposed SUMP, which was recognized as a ‘National Project’ by the Union Government in 2008.
Residents of Riga village reaffirmed their unwavering support for the Government of India and the Arunachal Pradesh government in conducting the pre-feasibility survey, drilling, and other preparations for the PFR of the SUMP. This project is vital for addressing downstream flooding issues in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bangladesh, and other environmental concerns.
In another significant advancement for hydropower in Arunachal Pradesh, Union Power Secretary Pankaj Agarwal reviewed the final phases of the 2000 MW Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project located in Kamle district.
A government official indicated that Agarwal provided assurance of central support for essential infrastructure being developed at Dollungmukh, near the Arunachal-Assam border. Accompanying him were National Hydro Power Corporation (NHPC) Chairman-cum-Managing Director Rajendra Prasad Goyal and Director (Projects) Sanjay Kumar Singh.
This high-ranking team conducted an on-site review of India’s largest hydroelectric project on Sunday, which is nearing completion. The Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project, which began construction in January 2005 after securing forest clearance in October 2004, has faced numerous challenges, leading to significant delays in its commissioning.
By January 2020, the estimated cost of this large-scale power project had soared to over Rs 20,000 crore from the initial Rs 6,285 crore, with the commissioning originally set for December 2012.
Point of View
The review of the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project highlights the importance of local engagement in large-scale infrastructure projects. It is essential for the government to foster collaborative relationships with communities to ensure mutual benefits and sustainable development.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project?
The Siang Upper Multipurpose Project is a proposed hydroelectric project in Arunachal Pradesh, aimed at generating 11,000 MW of power.
When was the project declared a national project?
The project was declared a 'National Project' by the Union government in 2008.
What are the benefits of the SUMP?
The SUMP is intended to mitigate downstream flooding impacts in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bangladesh, and address various environmental issues.
What recent agreement was signed by the Riga village residents?
Residents of Riga village signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on July 11 to support the Pre-Feasibility Report of the SUMP.
Who reviewed the Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project?
Union Power Secretary Pankaj Agarwal reviewed the final stages of the 2000 MW Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project.
