HT Correspondent
DIBRUGARH, Aug 23: The Dibang Multipurpose Hydro Project Downstream Affected Area Committee (DMHPDAAC) has raised strong objections to the proposed multipurpose dam projects in Arunachal Pradesh, alleging that they pose a grave threat to downstream regions of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
Addressing a press conference in Sadiya, the Committee claimed that the Roing Deputy Commissioner’s Office had issued directives attempting to suppress their democratic movement, forcing them to shift the venue of their protest to Assam.
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The organisation alleged that areas of Assam, particularly Sadiya, along with Arunachal’s Dibang Valley, are at extreme risk of damage due to the Dibang Multipurpose Hydro Project.
According to DMHPDAAC, both the Central and State governments have been treating the people of these regions as “third-class citizens,” jeopardising their land, property, and biodiversity while depriving them of rightful protections and benefits.
The Committee further accused the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) of misleading the people of Assam and Arunachal with false promises in the name of the Dibang Multipurpose Hydro Project.
“We are exhausted with NHPC’s fake assurances. Now we are prepared to face any situation against NHPC,” DMHPDAAC leaders stated.
The group also alleged that NHPC had already paid a compensation of ₹215 crore to the Arunachal Pradesh government, but claimed that the funds have not been utilized for the benefit of the people of Dibang district.
Raising concerns over safety measures, the Committee questioned why no safeguard guide bunds have been constructed downstream of the Ranganadi Dam till date.
“If safety measures were ignored in Ranganadi, what guarantee do we have that proper guide bunds will be built downstream of the Dibang Multipurpose Hydro Project?” they asked.
In a strongly worded statement, the organization said, “Today we are treated like third-class citizens in Arunachal.
To assert our democratic rights and to safeguard our existence, we are compelled to hold press conferences in another state like refugees.”
