The Upper Siang district administration on Friday held a consultative meeting at Komkar village to deliberate on the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), focusing on its potential benefits, challenges, and long-term implications.

Deputy Commissioner Talo Jerang, who chaired the session, said the project has the potential to drive regional development by improving infrastructure, generating employment, and promoting socio-economic growth. He assured that the administration would prioritise community welfare and adopt a transparent, participatory approach in all stages of the project.

During the interactive session, villagers shared their views and raised concerns about the project’s possible impacts. A technical question-and-answer session was also conducted to clarify details related to the project’s scope and implementation.

Senior officials from departments including police, health, forest, education, hydropower, and NHPC were present at the meeting.

The SUMP, proposed along the Siang River, is envisioned as a major hydropower and infrastructure initiative aimed at harnessing renewable energy, enhancing connectivity, mitigating floods, and fostering regional development.

The district administration emphasised that sustained community engagement would be essential to ensure equitable distribution of the project’s benefits. The meeting concluded with a collective agreement to advance the project through an informed and inclusive framework.