| Staff REPORTER |
Itanagar, Mar 3: In a significant step towards advancing the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), an MoU was signed between the Government of Arunachal Pradesh and the residents of Pangkang (Jorkong) village in Siang district, granting consent for the Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR)-related activities of the project.
A total of 79 out of 86 households of the village signed the agreement, indicating strong community support for the project, which is considered to be of national importance and is expected to strengthen India’s energy security while catalysing regional development.
The MoU was signed by Siang Deputy Commissioner Tayi Taggu on behalf of the government, while Tamyo Mingki signed on behalf of Pangkang (Jorkong) village.
The event was attended by Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Ojing Tasing, Chairman of the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project Development Committee (SUMPDC) Tamiyo Taga, Joint Secretary (Hydropower) Hage Lailang, and Chief Engineer (DHPD), Siang Basin, Karom Perme, along with other senior officials and community members.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Ojing Tasing said that the growing participation and support from local communities reflected their trust and confidence in the project. He reiterated that the government is committed to ensuring inclusive and transparent development aligned with the aspirations of the people. He described the PFR activities as an important step towards comprehensively assessing the project while safeguarding environmental and community interests.
The State Nodal Officer explained the provisions of the MoU in detail, clarifying that it is exclusively for conducting PFR-related activities. He informed that upon successful completion of the PFR and examination of its feasibility, the government will consult the Project Affected Families (PAFs) and prepare an appropriate Rehabilitation and Resettlement (R&R) package. He added that special development packages focusing on the inclusive and sustainable development of PAFs would also be implemented.
SUMPDC Chairman Tamiyo Taga highlighted the strategic importance of the project, while members of the community expressed support for the PFR process, emphasising the need for continued dialogue, transparency and safeguarding of local interests.
The Siang Upper Multipurpose Project is envisaged as a major strategic infrastructure initiative aimed at hydropower generation, flood moderation and boosting socio-economic development in the state. The government reiterated its commitment to a consultative approach to ensure that stakeholder concerns are addressed at every stage of the project.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed gratitude to the people of Pangkang (Jorkong) for their trust and cooperation. In a statement, he said that the signing of the MoU by 79 out of 86 households reflects a shared commitment to national security, ecological balance and sustainable development, adding, “Together, we move forward with dialogue, responsibility and unity.”