India Accelerates Development of Major Hydropower Project in Arunachal Pradesh Amidst Growing Concerns Over China’s Influence
In a strategic move to counter China’s expanding influence in the region, India is ramping up the development of a massive hydropower project in Arunachal Pradesh. The ambitious dam, planned for the Siang upper valley, is poised to become the nation’s largest, with a projected capacity to generate between 10 to 12 gigawatts (GW) of power. Estimated to cost around Rs 1 trillion, this initiative has been prioritized in response to China’s construction of the substantial 60 GW Motong hydropower station on the Yarlung Tsangpo river in Tibet.
Concerns have been mounting in India following reports that the Motong dam could lower the water flow into India by as much as 80 percent, jeopardizing water security and raising fears that China may weaponize this crucial resource. In light of these developments, the Indian government is framing the Siang upper valley dam as a three-pronged initiative aimed at flood management, water flow correction, and power generation. The state-owned hydropower corporation, NHPC, has been handed the responsibility of preparing detailed project reports and conducting feasibility studies for the dam.
Recent approvals from the Union Cabinet for over Rs 16,000 crore in funding aimed at hydropower projects and infrastructure in the Northeast underscore a firm commitment to fast-tracking this significant undertaking.
However, the project does face hurdles, particularly from local communities. Residents have expressed concerns regarding the potential ecological impacts of the dam and the displacement of tribal lands and livelihoods. Reports from the region indicate that NHPC has encountered difficulties in data collection due to resistance from locals worried about the environmental effects on aquatic ecosystems.
Despite these challenges, the Indian government continues to assert that the Siang dam is vital for national security, particularly in mitigating risks associated with the Chinese Motong project. In addition to enhancing flood moderation and water security, the dam is expected to safeguard against the potential diversion of 40 billion cubic meters of water by China. Furthermore, 12 percent of the energy generated from the project is earmarked for the benefit of Arunachal Pradesh, addressing the region’s pressing power needs.
The accelerated development of the Siang upper valley dam reflects India’s commitment to strengthening its energy security and asserting its presence in a region marked by increasing geopolitical competition.
