Arunachal Dy CM Raises Alarm Over China's $137 Billion Hydroelectric Project

Itanagar, March 21 (NationPress) Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein expressed serious concerns regarding China's colossal $137 billion hydroelectric dam initiative, expected to generate 60,000 MW of electricity along the Yarlung Tsangpo river, situated in the upper regions of the Siang river in neighboring China.

During his two-day engagement in Siang and Upper Siang districts, the Deputy Chief Minister emphasized the significance of the Upper Siang Multipurpose Project (USMP), which is currently under construction in India.

Deputy CM Mein shared insights from experts and researchers about the environmental repercussions associated with such a massive hydropower venture on the Tsangpo river. He cautioned that if China proceeds with constructing the extensive dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo river and diverts its flow, it could lead to the drying up of the Siang river.

He pointed out that the tributaries of the Siang river are crucial for aquatic biodiversity and the livelihoods of vast populations in the plains of Assam and Bangladesh, who rely on the Brahmaputra river for agricultural irrigation.

Furthermore, he warned that in the event of a future conflict between the two nations, a sudden release of water from the dam could cause unpredictable flooding in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, resulting in significant loss of life and property.

He asserted that the repercussions of such a large-scale project by the Chinese government should not be overlooked, emphasizing that the people downstream would face severe consequences.

Chowna Mein, who also oversees the Power and Non-Conventional Energy Resources Department, mentioned that considering these factors, the Union government has proposed the Upper Siang Multipurpose Project, a dam on the Siang river with the potential to generate up to 11,000 MW of electricity.

This initiative is vital for alleviating the risks of downstream flooding in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Bangladesh, along with addressing various environmental concerns.

The primary aim of the project is to ensure the safety and well-being of downstream communities and tackle other environmental challenges, he stated.

He clarified that power generation is a secondary outcome of the project, which will serve as a reservoir for rainwater, preventing the Siang river from drying during dry spells.

In case of a significant water release by China, the dam on the Siang river would function as a control mechanism, moderating flood levels downstream.

The Deputy Chief Minister also urged the educated and influential segments of society to raise awareness among villagers about the advantages and positive impacts of the USMP.

Moreover, he invited critics of the USMP to reconsider and engage in discussions to find a resolution.

He reassured that the state government would respect the people's will and consent.

However, he pledged that the state government would ensure proper rehabilitation for displaced individuals, develop model villages with essential amenities, construct dual land roads alongside the Siang river, and provide adequate compensation to affected populations, along with establishing hospitals and educational facilities.

Deputy CM Mein revealed that a dedicated committee has been established to address all inquiries, and discussions will persist to ensure that public concerns are duly considered.

He encouraged the community to focus on the long-term socio-economic benefits that the dam will bring to the region and the state as a whole.