The Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister, Pema Khandu, has spotlighted the dual purpose of the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP).
The Rs 1.13 lakh crore initiative, beyond power generation, aims to safeguard India's water resources amidst looming threats from China’s massive hydropower development on the Brahmaputra River in Tibet.
China's approval of a $137 billion hydropower project, touted as the world’s largest, has intensified India's concerns.
This dam, to be constructed near the Yarlung Zangbo gorge, has raised alarms about potential disruptions to the Siang River's flow into Arunachal Pradesh, crucial for millions downstream in India and neighbouring Bangladesh.
In an exclusive interview, Khandu asserted, “The SUMP, with an estimated installed capacity of 11,000 MW, is not just about generating power but also about maintaining the natural flow of the Siang River and mitigating potential flood risks from water releases by China.”
The project, deemed a matter of national importance, prioritises ecological stability and the preservation of local livelihoods. “The real objective of the project is to save the Siang River and the communities that have depended on it for generations,” Khandu emphasised.
China’s ambitious dam, positioned strategically along the Brahmaputra’s lower reaches, is set to generate over 300 billion kWh of electricity annually—enough to power 300 million people. Experts warn, however, that it could drastically impact the Siang River's seasonal flow.
“The volume of water could decrease so much that one might be able to cross the mighty river on foot during winters,” Khandu warned.
The SUMP’s reservoir, capable of storing nine billion cubic metres of water, aims to stabilise the river's flow year-round and buffer against sudden deluges from upstream Chinese dams.
Despite its grand vision, the SUMP faces stiff opposition from local communities concerned about displacement, loss of livelihoods, and environmental damage.
Khandu assured that comprehensive surveys would precede any finalisation. “Only after these studies will we determine the exact location of the dam, its height, and the submergence area. Public hearings will also address people's concerns,” he stated.
Khandu criticised activists for allegedly spreading misinformation. “These activists are instigating people without providing accurate information about the project's benefits,” he claimed. He urged villagers to engage in dialogue to dispel fears.
Arunachal's hydropower ambitions
Highlighting Arunachal’s hydroelectric potential, Khandu announced the development of 13 projects with a combined capacity of over 11,000 MW, in collaboration with agencies like NHPC, NEEPCO, and SJVN.
Recently sanctioned projects, such as the 186 MW Tato-I and 240 MW Heo in Shi Yomi district, underscore the state’s commitment to harnessing renewable energy.
Additionally, the Centre’s equity support scheme for northeastern states has earmarked Rs 4,136 crore for hydroelectric projects totalling 15,000 MW by 2032.
The Local Area Development Fund (LADF) contribution from power projects has also been increased to over 2 per cent, ensuring benefits for affected communities.
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