Arunachal: CM Pema Khandu Slams Anti-Dam Activists for Misinformation on Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP)

ITANAGAR: Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday sharply attacked anti-dam activists opposing the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) in Arunachal Pradesh.

Speaking at a gathering organized by the Galo Welfare Society (GWS) in Paya, West Siang district, Khandu accused the activists of spreading misinformation and creating confusion regarding the benefits of the project.

Khandu clarified that SUMP is not just a hydropower initiative but a multi-purpose project of national importance. He said that even if hydropower generation is a by-product, the major issue is to regulate and ensure the natural flow in Siang River and save flood risks in the region.

In response to the local concerns, Khandu said the state government would not proceed with the project if the people expressed high-level opposition. However, he called for an open discussion, urging the locals to come forward and start discussing their apprehensions.

He said, "China has sanctioned the building of the world's biggest dam on Brahmaputra in Tibet near India." He has said that in case China unleashes water from this dam, it would affect Arunachal Pradesh and Assam considerably.

Khandu concluded by appealing to various organizations, including the Adi Bane Kebang and Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum, to come together and find a peaceful resolution to the project's concerns.

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