Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP)

Why in News?

In October 2026, protests intensified in Arunachal Pradesh against the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, amid concerns about displacement, environmental impacts and the loss of ancestral lands. The project has also gained strategic importance because of China’s proposed mega-dam upstream.

Key Facts

Location

• Proposed on the Siang River near Geku in Upper Siang district, Arunachal Pradesh.
• The Siang is the upper course of the Brahmaputra River in India.

Project Capacity

• Proposed installed capacity: approximately 11,200 MW (11.2 GW).
• It is envisaged as a major hydropower and water-storage project.
• Implementing agency: National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC).

Objectives of the Project

• Hydropower Generation: Harness the hydropower potential of the Siang River.
• Water Storage and Regulation: Store and manage water in the Siang basin.
• Flood Management: Potentially help regulate seasonal river flows and reduce downstream flood risks.
• Strategic Significance: Strengthen India’s capacity to manage the Brahmaputra basin amid concerns about China’s upstream hydropower development.

China’s Mega-Dam Project

• Location: Lower reaches of the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet, China.
• Proposed Capacity: Around 60,000 MW (60 GW).
• River Connection: The Yarlung Tsangpo flows into India as the Siang and subsequently forms part of the Brahmaputra river system.
• Strategic Concern: Changes in upstream water flows could affect downstream communities, agriculture and infrastructure in India.

Environmental and Social Concerns

• Displacement: Local communities fear the submergence of villages and ancestral lands.
• Indigenous Communities: The Adi tribe has strong cultural, social and livelihood connections with the Siang River.
• Ecological Impacts: A large dam may affect river ecosystems, biodiversity and natural flow patterns.
• Local Opposition: Protests have focused on land loss, livelihoods, cultural heritage and the need for meaningful consultation.

Current Status

• Preliminary Feasibility Report (PFR): The project remains at the preliminary feasibility assessment stage and has not received final approval for construction.
• Further Requirements: Technical assessments, environmental and social impact studies, consultations and statutory clearances would be required before a final construction decision.

Practice MCQs

Q1. Consider the following statements about the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project:

1. It is proposed in Arunachal Pradesh.
2. The Siang River forms part of the Brahmaputra river system.
3. The project has received final approval for construction.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only.

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