Arunachal CM: Siang challenge goals to curb China flood dangers | India Information – Occasions of India

ITANAGAR: Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu mentioned the Siang Higher Multipurpose Challenge (SUMP), estimated to value Rs 1.13 lakh crore, was being deliberate by the Centre not only for producing electrical energy however to take care of the pure circulation of the river all yr spherical and mitigate dangers of flooding if China launched extra water.
Khandu’s remarks got here within the wake of China approving the development of the world’s largest dam, at a price of $137 billion, on the Brahmaputra river in Tibet near the Indian border.
The dam is to be constructed at a gorge within the Himalayan reaches the place the Brahmaputra makes an enormous U-turn to circulation into Arunachal after which to Bangladesh.
“The SUMP, with an estimated put in capability of 11,000 mw, isn’t just about producing energy, but in addition about sustaining the pure circulation of the Siang river and mitigating potential flood dangers from water releases by China,” Khandu mentioned. “The true goal of the challenge is to avoid wasting the Siang river and the communities which have trusted it for generations,” he mentioned. The survey for making ready the pre-feasibility report of the tasks is but to be accomplished amid opposition from locals involved about displacement, lack of livelihoods, and environmental affect.
Warning of extreme penalties if China’s challenge strikes forward “with out safeguards”, Khandu mentioned plans to divert water from the Brahmaputra into its arid areas might drastically cut back the circulation of the Siang river throughout winters.
Acknowledging the continuing bilateral discussions between India and China, the chief minister cautioned in opposition to “complacency” and underscored the necessity for India to stay vigilant.