Khandu assures no decision on Siang dam, only PFR under way

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has assured the Adi community that neither the state nor the Centre has taken any decision on construction of the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (UMP), and that the government is currently only considering preparation of a Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR). In statements on Monday (2 November 2026), Khandu said the PFR is an initial assessment of viability and alternatives, not an approval for construction, and that any future move would require extensive public consultations and consent as mandated by law.

Khandu cited China's reported dam construction in Medog county on the Yarlung Tsangpo river, about 40 km from the border, which began on 19 July 2025, as a reason for examining water-security options. He said about 65 per cent of the Aane Siang's water originates in China, creating risks of sudden high flows and winter scarcity. Khandu rejected as misinformation claims that families would be displaced or land acquired without consent, and appealed for dialogue while warning that violence, bandhs and blockades would hurt local communities.