Siang Dam Project: A Debate on Development, Displacement, and Trans-boundary River Politics
UPSC Relevance
Geography: River Systems (Brahmaputra), Dams, Trans-boundary rivers.
Environment: Hydropower projects and their environmental and social impact.
International Relations: India-China relations (water issues).
Social Issues: Tribal rights and Displacement.
Key Highlights from the News
Farmers and activists are protesting against the proposed 11,500 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) on the Siang River in Arunachal Pradesh.
The government claims this project is to counter China's planned Medog Hydropower Station on the Yarlung Tsangpo river in Tibet.
The Yarlung Tsangpo flows into Arunachal Pradesh as the Siang and later becomes the Brahmaputra in Assam.
Opponents state that the SUMP project will submerge 27 villages, displace over 1.5 lakh Adi tribe members, and affect forest land and agricultural fields.
Activists demand that instead of creating fear about China's project, India should discuss it with China to gain clarity.
India and Bangladesh have concerns about the repercussions of China's dam.
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