Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday criticized anti-dam activists for spreading misinformation about the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP). Speaking at an event organized by the Galo Welfare Society (GWS) in Paya, near Aalo in West Siang district, Khandu accused the activists of misleading the public about the project’s benefits.

Khandu clarified that the SUMP is not solely a hydropower project but a multipurpose initiative with national significance. He emphasized that the primary goal of the project is to regulate the natural flow of the Siang River and mitigate flood risks, with hydropower generation being a secondary benefit.

Addressing local concerns, Khandu assured the community that the project would not proceed if the people were opposed to it. He urged residents to participate in discussions for a better understanding of the project.

The Chief Minister also raised concerns about China’s planned construction of the world’s largest dam on the Brahmaputra River in Tibet, warning that the release of water from this dam could have serious consequences for Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.

Khandu concluded by urging local organizations, including the Adi Bane Kebang, Galo Welfare Society, and Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum, to engage in constructive dialogue and help resolve concerns regarding the project.