Maksam Tayeng

PASIGHAT, AUG 14:

A two-member delegation of the East Siang Downstream District Affected People’s Forum (ESDDAPF) met Chief Minister Pema Khandu at Pasighat on August 10 and submitted a memorandum highlighting the concerns and apprehensions of downstream communities likely to be affected by the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), also known as the Upper Siang Multi-Purpose Storage Project.

The delegation, comprising ESDDAPF president Oni Tamuk and general secretary Jobomchang Mengu, apprised the chief minister of the concerns and sentiments of people residing in downstream areas that may be impacted by the project.

According to the Forum, Chief Minister Khandu acknowledged the concerns and assured the delegation that the memorandum would be discussed with the concerned authorities.

A key outcome of the meeting was an assurance that a mass meeting and consultation would be convened with representatives of ESDDAPF and village representatives from downstream areas likely to be affected by SUMP.

The proposed consultation is expected to provide a broader platform for affected communities to directly place their concerns and views before the state government.

ESDDAPF termed the assurance a positive step towards ensuring that the voices of downstream communities are considered before major decisions concerning the project are taken.

The Forum maintained that the concerns of downstream people should be addressed through meaningful consultation, transparency and direct participation of affected communities. It reiterated its commitment to pursuing the interests of downstream affected people through peaceful, democratic and constitutional means.

ESDDAPF expressed hope that the proposed consultation would provide an opportunity for the state government to duly consider the concerns of affected communities in the process concerning SUMP.