YINGKIONG, SEP 29:

An awareness programme on the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) was conducted across six villages of Upper Siang district — Palsi, Panggo, Ningging, Old Tuting, Rishing and Gome — recently, with the aim of providing residents information on the project and facilitating direct interaction with local stakeholders.

The outreach programme was organised in collaboration with the Bogun Bokang Welfare Society (BBWS). The sessions covered the scope, objectives and current planning stage of SUMP, followed by distribution of informational materials and open question-and-answer sessions where residents raised queries and shared their views.

The programme was conducted under the guidance of BBWS President and retired DSP Kakit Duggong, retired BEO Hinggong Bomong, BBWS Secretary General Bango Duggong and Secretary HQ Oni Ninggo. Head Gaon Burahs, Gaon Burahs, Gram Panchayat Chairpersons and Members, Village Development Committee members and local residents participated in the sessions.

According to the organisers, the programme sought to address information gaps, facilitate informed participation and promote transparent communication on the proposed project.

The outreach comes amid ongoing discussions and differing views over the SUMP and its proposed pre-feasibility activities.

The state government has recently emphasised continuous public engagement and meaningful dialogue with residents and likely project-affected families during the PFR process.