Guwahati: The Arunachal Pradesh Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Pema Khandu, on Wednesday approved the formation of an Empowered High-Level Committee to oversee and coordinate the Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) survey and related activities for the proposed Upper Siang Multipurpose Project (SUMP) in Siang and Upper Siang districts.
The committee will supervise the survey process, with the state government emphasising that the exercise should be carried out in a transparent, peaceful and people-centric manner.
The Cabinet noted that the project was declared a National Project by the Government of India in 2008, underlining its strategic importance for both Arunachal Pradesh and the country.
According to the Cabinet, the proposed project could contribute to water and energy security, support flood moderation in the Siang-Brahmaputra basin, create employment opportunities and promote long-term socio-economic development in the Siang region.
The Empowered High-Level Committee will be headed by Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Ojing Tasing. Alo Libang, Advisor to the Chief Minister and MLA from Yingkiong and Tuting, and Oni Panyang, MLA from Geku-Mariyang, will serve as members.
The Cabinet also took note of concerns expressed by sections of the population in Siang and Upper Siang districts regarding what it described as misinformation and disinformation being circulated by certain vested interests.
It stressed that sustained and meaningful engagement with residents of the two districts would be important for ensuring the peaceful conduct of the PFR survey.
The Cabinet further said the concerns, welfare and aspirations of Project Affected Families (PAFs) and local communities would remain central to the process.
It also reiterated the government’s stated commitment to pursuing development while respecting local traditions and community interests.
The Cabinet expressed confidence that continued dialogue and engagement with local communities would enable the survey process to move forward peacefully while addressing concerns raised in the region.