SOURCE: AFI
In response to China’s plans for a massive hydroelectric project near Arunachal Pradesh, the Indian government has expedited the development of its own colossal dam in the Siang upper valley. The recently announced financial assistance from the Union Cabinet for hydropower projects is primarily intended to support the initial project management of this ambitious endeavor.
The proposed dam serves a threefold purpose: flood management, water flow correction, and power generation as a secondary benefit. NHPC, a state-owned hydropower company, has been tasked with preparing a detailed project report (DPR) and a project feasibility report (PFR). According to NHPC’s estimates, the dam will have the capacity to generate 10-12 gigawatts (GW) of hydropower, surpassing all existing hydel projects in India. The projected cost is estimated to be around Rs 1 trillion.
However, the project has faced significant opposition from the local population, who express concerns about its potential ecological impact. Local reports indicate that NHPC’s data collection efforts have been hindered by residents apprehensive about the project’s adverse effects on aquatic ecosystems. NHPC, on the other hand, justifies the project on the grounds of national security and the potential negative consequences of China’s hydroelectric project.
The acceleration of this mega dam project in Arunachal Pradesh underscores India’s strategic response to China’s growing influence in the region. While the project promises significant economic benefits, it also raises important questions about environmental sustainability and the well-being of local communities.