‘It’s not a dam, just PFR’: Arunachal CM invites SUMP opponents for talks

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has invited those opposing the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) to come forward for dialogue and place their concerns before the government.

Clarifying the government's position on the ongoing PFR exercise, Khandu said the process should not be equated with approval for construction of a dam.

“It’s not a dam, it’s just PFR,” the Chief Minister said, stressing that the present exercise is aimed at assessing the project's technical feasibility.

Khandu said preparation of a PFR does not mean that the project has been approved or that a dam will definitely be constructed.

He said the government is willing to engage with affected communities and listen to their concerns and grievances before any further decision is taken.

The Chief Minister urged stakeholders opposing the project to participate in dialogue and consultation rather than base their views solely on apprehensions about the proposed project.

The SUMP, proposed across Siang and Upper Siang districts, has faced opposition from sections of local communities and organisations concerned about its potential impact on land, livelihoods and the environment.

The Arunachal Pradesh government has maintained that the ongoing exercise is intended to assess the project's feasibility, with further decisions to be taken only after the necessary studies and consultations.

Khandu's invitation comes amid continuing discussions over the proposed multipurpose project and growing demands from sections of the affected areas for greater clarity on its potential social and environmental implications.