BOLENG : In a significant development for the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), as many as 981 villagers from six villages signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Tuesday to facilitate preparation of the project’s Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR).

The mass signing exercise was conducted at the Siang Deputy Commissioner’s office under the supervision of Siang Deputy Commissioner Tayi Taggu in the presence of district officials. Villagers arrived at the district headquarters throughout the day to complete the formalities.

The signatories included 544 villagers from Riga, 88 from Parong, 68 from Sitang, 160 from Riew, 26 from Begging and 95 from Pangkang (Jorkong).

The exercise is being regarded as one of the largest single-day MoU signing drives undertaken so far in connection with the proposed project, reflecting increasing community participation in the pre-feasibility process.

According to officials, the growing response follows weeks of consultations and dialogue facilitated by the district administration with village councils, Gaon Burahs and local residents to ensure informed and voluntary participation in the developmental initiative.

Officials further stated that the increasing number of MoUs signed across villages in the Siang region indicates wider acceptance of the consultative process being undertaken ahead of the finalisation of the Pre-Feasibility Report.

The Siang Upper Multipurpose Project is one of the state’s major proposed infrastructure projects. The district administration said continued engagement with affected communities will remain a priority as the project progresses through the pre-feasibility stage.