Arunachal Protesters Enter Assam Demanding Cancellation of 11,200-MW Siang Project

On Thursday, a group of protesters from Arunachal Pradesh marched across the border into Assam, demanding that the state and central governments abandon the 11,200-megawatt Siang hydropower project. The demonstrators, many of whom are local residents and tribal activists, gathered near the border town of Pasighat before proceeding towards the Assam side, where they staged a peaceful sit-in.

The Siang project, slated to be one of the largest hydroelectric schemes in the Northeast, has faced opposition over concerns of ecological damage, displacement of indigenous communities, and potential alteration of river flow. Protesters carried placards and chanted slogans urging the authorities to respect the rights of the local populace and preserve the river's natural ecosystem.

Local police in Assam escorted the marchers to a designated area to avoid any disruption to traffic and public order. Officials from both states have been urged to engage in dialogue, though no official response has been issued yet regarding the protesters' demands.

The protest adds to a growing wave of dissent against large‑scale infrastructure projects in the region, with environmental groups and community leaders calling for comprehensive impact assessments before any further construction proceeds.

Authorities are expected to monitor the situation closely, and any escalation could prompt a formal meeting between Arunachal and Assam officials to address the concerns raised by the demonstrators.