Itanagar, Dec 30: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has emphasized that the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) is not solely focused on generating hydropower, but also aimed at mitigating the flood risks posed by China’s hydropower developments.

The Rs 1.13 lakh crore project, with a planned capacity of 11,000 MW, is designed to regulate the flow of the Siang River, which is vital for the state’s communities. Khandu’s comments come in light of China’s recent approval of the world’s largest dam on the Brahmaputra River in Tibet, which has raised concerns over potential disruptions to the river’s flow as it enters Arunachal Pradesh.

Khandu explained that the Siang project will create a reservoir with a storage capacity of 9 billion cubic meters, ensuring consistent water flow throughout the year and acting as a buffer against potential flood risks caused by excess water released from upstream Chinese dams. He warned that China’s plans to divert water from the Brahmaputra could lead to dangerously low water levels in the Siang river, particularly in the winter months.

Despite concerns from locals regarding displacement and environmental impact, Khandu assured that the project would undergo extensive surveys and public consultations before receiving final approval. He also urged the community to engage in constructive dialogue and dismissed misinformation being spread by certain activists.

In addition to the Siang project, Khandu highlighted the state’s broader hydropower development plans, including the Tato-I and Heo Hydro Electric Projects. With agreements signed for 13 new projects generating over 11,000 MW, Arunachal Pradesh aims to emerge as a major energy hub while balancing environmental considerations.