GUWAHATI, March 3: In a significant step towards advancing the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), an MoU was signed between the Arunachal Pradesh government and the residents of Pangkang Jorkong village, granting consent for the pre-feasibility report (PFR) related activities of the project.
Altogether 79 out of 86 households from Pangkang Jorkong village signed the MoU, indicating strong community support for the project, which is 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 of Arunachal Pradesh, while Tamyo Mingki signed the MoU on behalf of the villagers of Pangkang (Jorkong).
The event was attended by Ojing Tasing, Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Cooperation and Transport; Tamiyo Taga, chairman, Siang Upper Multipurpose Project Development Committee (SUMPDC); Hage Lailang, joint secretary, hydropower; and Karom Perme, chief engineer (DHPD), Siang Basin, along with other senior officials and community members.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister Tasing said, “The growing participation and support from local communities is a strong testament to the trust and confidence in the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project. The government is committed to ensuring that development is inclusive, transparent and aligned with the aspirations of the people. The PFR activities are an important step towards assessing the project comprehensively while safeguarding environmental and community interests.”
The state nodal officer explained the contents of the MoU in detail and informed the attendees that the MoU is exclusively for PFR, adding that upon successful completion and feasibility examination of the PFR, the Government will consult the Project Affected Families (PAFs) and prepare the relief and rehabilitation package for the SUMP.
The state government will also implement special development packages focused on the inclusive and sustainable development of PAFs.
Members of the community expressed their support for the PFR-related activities while underscoring the importance of continued dialogue, transparency, and safeguarding local interests.
The Siang Upper Multipurpose Project is envisaged as a strategic infrastructure initiative that will contribute to hydropower generation, flood moderation, and socio-economic development in Arunachal Pradesh.
