Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Monday reached out to locals protesting against the 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, saying their concerns will be addressed through open dialogue, transparency and meaningful public consultation.
In an open letter, the chief minister addressed the protesters as “my beloved Adi brothers” and made it clear that the government is not talking about dam construction at this stage.
He said the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project was declared a National Project by the Centre on 7th February 2008 after a decision by the Union Cabinet. At present, it is one of only 16 national projects in the country.
In an open letter, the chief minister addressed the protesters as “my beloved Adi brothers” and made it clear that the government is not talking about dam construction at this stage. The chief minister said he deeply understands the concerns and apprehensions surrounding the mega hydropower plant planned on the Siang River. Khandu said that the state government will move forward only with due consideration for the aspirations and interests of the local people. Therefore, the chief minister said, it was his responsibility “to speak to you” directly, place the facts honestly, listen to all concerns and ensure that the way forward is built on dialogue, trust and collaboration. The chief minister said the state government cannot control what happens upstream, but it can control on this side. “I assure each and every one of you that no decision has been made regarding construction of the Siang UMP by either the Government of India or the Government of Arunachal Pradesh,” he said.
