The Dibang

Safety first, always 🏗️⚡

When discussing the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, a common question arises: Why not build multiple smaller dams instead of one large structure?

The truth lies in water management. Smaller structures simply cannot retain or control the massive volumes of water required to prevent seasonal flooding. A single large reservoir provides the necessary scale to regulate heavy inflows, protecting thousands of lives and livelihoods in the Siang Basin.

Sustained development, robust protection.

The proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) is not being planned above Yingkiong due to strategic safety, storage capacity, and geographical considerations. Experts say the selected location must safely store nearly 9.2 BCM of water while ensuring the reservoir remains completely within Indian territory.

The mega project is expected to generate around 11,000 MW of electricity and also help in flood control, water regulation, and downstream protection in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam. Areas near Geku and Parong are reportedly being considered more suitable for the project due to their terrain and storage potential.

Apart from hydropower generation, the project is also viewed as strategically important in managing future upstream water-related risks along the Siang River.