Itanagar, June 14 (UNI) In a landmark move to fast-track hydropower development and ensure sustainable economic growth, the Arunachal Pradesh Cabinet, in a special meeting held on Friday, took several significant decisions, with a strong focus on the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) and the creation of future-ready townships in the state’s hydropower-rich regions.

The Cabinet was briefed on the strategic and national security importance of the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, which was declared a 'National Project' by the Government of India in 2008.

The Cabinet also took note of the concerns expressed by certain sections of people regarding the preparation of the Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) for the SUMP and acknowledged the State Government’s ongoing efforts to build consensus with likely Project Affected Families (PAFs) through regular engagement and public consultations.

Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and inclusivity, the Cabinet emphasised the need for sustained dialogue with all stakeholders and directed that fair, just, and equitable compensation and solatium be ensured for all likely PAFs if the project proceeds post the PFR.

In a step toward future urban planning, the Cabinet directed the Department of Urban Development for the constitution of Yingkiong Development Authority and Geku Development Authority to oversee the planned development of modern alternate towns in Upper Siang.

Furthermore, a high-level committee under the Secretary of Land Management has been constituted to examine land and property compensation rates as well as to suggest the mechanisms for a robust Rehabilitation and Resettlement Plan for affected families (PAFs).

The Council of Ministers also decided to request the Government of India for a special development package for Siang and Upper Siang districts, aimed at holistic and beneficiary-orientated social development in the twin districts. Simultaneously, the Public Works Department was instructed to begin a survey for constructing a necklace road along both banks of the Siang River, above the proposed submergence area, to boost connectivity.

Declaring the decade 2025–2035 as the ‘Decade of Hydro Power’, the Cabinet underlined Arunachal Pradesh’s potential to become a powerhouse of clean energy, with a total hydropower capacity of 58,000 MW.

During this period, the State aims to implement a balanced mix of mega, large, and small hydroelectric projects while fostering an industrial ecosystem and creating employment and self-employment opportunities, especially for youth.

Currently, around 19 GW of hydroelectric projects (HEPs) are under development, with cumulative investments of over Rs 2 lakh crore in the next 10 years. From 2035 onwards, Arunachal Pradesh is projected to receive annual revenues of Rs 4,525 crore from the sale of its share of free power from HEPs.

To manage this upcoming revenue stream efficiently, the Cabinet approved the creation of an escrow account for the strategic handling and utilisation of these funds. The mechanism is aimed at ensuring transparency, enabling strategic investments in key development areas, and maximising the long-term benefits for the state and its people.

This visionary initiative, the Cabinet asserted, will serve as a critical foundation for Arunachal’s energy sovereignty and socio-economic transformation in the coming decades.

UNI TD ARN