ITANAGAR, Oct 23: Peoples’ Party of Arunachal (PPA) president Nabam Vivek has urged the state government to establish a separate entity to address issues related to the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP).
Vivek, who is also the MLA from Doimukh, visited several villages affected by the dam on September 24–25 and interacted with local residents. He noted that many villagers’ plots, agricultural lands, and WRC lands are located along both banks of the river, with no alternative sources, making them emotionally attached to their land. Many locals reportedly fear that the project could lead to demographic and livelihood losses.
He suggested that a dedicated mechanism, such as a Siang Hydro Power Development Corporation, could ensure transparent dialogue, fair compensation, and sustainable development, instead of the project being handled solely by NHPC.
Vivek recommended that revenue, CSR benefits, and other entitlements be disbursed through DBT mode to the affected people, with enhanced revenue-sharing to support long-term regional development.
“The sentiments, voices, and rights of land-affected people must be respected,” he stressed.
The legislator urged the government to constitute a special committee, including non-political experts, to bridge the trust gap between authorities and the local community and propose solutions that balance development and people’s welfare.