Staff Reporter 

ITANAGAR, Nov 7:  Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein has appealed to organisations opposing the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) to come forward for dialogue with the state government, stressing that mutual understanding and discussions are essential to resolving the ongoing differences over the proposed mega dam project.
Speaking to the media, Mein urged various organisations, including community bodies, student and youth organisations and other civil society groups, to participate in discussions with Chief Minister Pema Khandu and the state government rather than continuing their opposition without engaging in dialogue.
"Listen to our side as well. Only then can a solution be reached," Mein said, emphasising that both sides must listen to each other's concerns to build mutual understanding.
Recalling the history of the proposed project, Mein said discussions on the multipurpose dam had taken place as early as 2016 during a meeting at NITI Aayog, attended by Chief Minister Pema Khandu and former minister Alo Libang. He said the importance of consulting local communities was highlighted during the meeting, following which committees were formed and awareness activities were initiated in villages.
Clarifying the issue of the Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR), Mein said an MoU was not required for preparing the report. He added that details regarding the number of villages likely to be affected, submergence areas and other project-related aspects would become clearer during the Detailed Project Report (DPR) stage.
He reiterated that the government would not go against the wishes of the people and that public opinion would remain important in the decision-making process.
He appealed to all organisations and groups opposing the project to accept the government's invitation for discussions, stating that dialogue and an exchange of views could help find a way forward and prevent further confrontation from affecting Arunachal Pradesh's development.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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