Yingkiong meet says no to big dam in Siang valley

ITANAGAR, Nov 1: Construction of mega dams over Siang has been opposed by Upper Siang and Siang districts, which are likely to be affected after construction of such dams.
An all Banggo level meeting of the two districts was held on October 30 at Yingkiong general ground to garner public consent on construction of dams over Siang.
“Ninety percent of the people, who attended the meeting from Mori, Rotgo, Ringgong, Boying, Beging and Mago-Banggos, voiced against construction of mega dam over Siang,” according to a signed press statement.
However, few people have favored construction of small dam stating that such hydel projects will benefit the people in long run besides meeting the power requirement.
While sharing their views, the public said that the government should not take decision arbitrarily and they should involve the people before signing any MoU or MoAs.
Many also criticized Yingkiong MLA Alo Libang for not discussing the issue even though the issue has been raised since 2013.
They also suggested for taking up the issue vigorously with the concern authority, MLAs and MP.
The meeting was presided over by Siang Indigenous Farmer’s Forum (SIFF) acting President Moddo Patuk.