Boleng, March 03: In a significant step towards advancing the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), an MoU was signed between the Government of Arunachal Pradesh (GoAP) and the residents of Pangkang Jorkong village, granting consent for the Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) related activities of the project.
A total of 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 Shri Tayi Taggu, Deputy Commissioner, Siang, on behalf of the Government of Arunachal Pradesh while Shri Tamyo Mingki signed the MoU on behalf of Pangkang (Jorkong).
The event was attended by Shri Ojing Tasing, Hon’ble Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Cooperation and Transport GoAP; Shri Tamiyo Taga, Chairman, Siang Upper Multipurpose Project Development Committee (SUMPDC); Shri Hage Lailang, Joint Secretary, Hydropower; and Shri Karom Perme, Chief Engineer (DHPD), Siang Basin, along with other senior officials and community members.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Ojing Tasing, Hon’ble Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Cooperation & Transport, GoAP, 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 R & R package for the SUMP.
The Government will also implement special development packages focused on the inclusive and sustainable development of PAFs. The SUMPDC Chairman also addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of the project.
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.
The Government reiterated its commitment to an inclusive and consultative approach, ensuring that stakeholder concerns are addressed at every stage of the project.
