Itanagar, Jan 10: Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday appealed to the apex community-based organizations (CBOs) including the Adi Baane Kebang (ABK), Galo Welfare Society (GWS) and the Arunachal Indigenous Tribes’ Forum (AITF) to hold discussions about the proposed 11,000 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) with all the stakeholders for the interest of nation and the state.
“An amicable solution is to be worked out for the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project,” stated the Chief Minister in the wake of recent protest by the people of Siang valley against the proposed dam on the river.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the GWS’ Silver Jubilee celebration at Paya near Aalo in West Siang district, the Chief Minister reiterated his stand on the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, the significance of which has grown manifold after the reports of China constructing the world’s largest dam on the Brahmaputra river in Tibet.
“Please remember, this is not a hydroelectric project but a multipurpose project and a project of national importance,” Khandu said.
Informing that MoUs for 13,000 MW hydropower projects have been signed in the recent past and works have already started, he said that the move will augment the state revenue. These hydro projects are being developed in partnership with the State Govt which will have a 26% equity share.
“Balanced development and inclusive governance is the prime agenda of the government,” he asserted.