The 11,000‑MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, slated for construction by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation, remains stalled amid local opposition. Arunachal Pradesh’s rural development minister, Ojing Tasing, reiterated the state’s stance that national security matters cannot be compromised.
Tasing, who represents Pangin in Siang district, highlighted that over 80 percent of villagers in potentially affected areas back the project. He stressed its importance for border security and flood control, especially given upstream infrastructure developments by China. “National security is a central subject, and the state government has no say in such matters,” he said.
Later that day, Tasing posted on social media that he had inspected the proposed Pre‑Feasibility Report site at Parong Village. He described the review as covering site readiness, coordination among departments, and logistical arrangements. The minister added that the project is a national interest initiative, aiming to balance development with dialogue, transparency, and an inclusive approach that prioritises the welfare of the region’s people.
Opposition groups, including the Siang Indigenous Farmers’ Forum, have raised ecological, seismic and displacement concerns, citing the potential impact on more than 25 villages and agricultural land. Siang Deputy Commissioner Tayi Taggu countered that the project would have minimal physical impact on settlements, with only 10–15 percent of structures in places like Parong and Sitang likely affected, mainly commercial or temporary. He noted that over 90 percent of residents in villages such as Parong, Riga and Jorkong support the project, and that claims of widespread opposition do not reflect on‑ground sentiment. Chief Minister Pema Khandu has said the project will not proceed if the Preliminary Feasibility Report finds it technically unviable.
