Itanagar: The Arunachal Pradesh government has decided not to rush the pre-feasibility study for the proposed mega hydropower project on the Siang River, which is seen as important to India's strategic and energy interests. Chief minister Pema Khandu told ET the state aims to adopt a balanced approach, addressing the concerns of families likely to be affected by the project before proceeding.

Siang is known as the Brahmaputra in Assam and the Yarlung Zangbo in China.

The proposed project, officially called the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, is seen as a counter to China's construction of a giant dam on the same river at Medog, just across the McMahon Line.

Although hydropower producer NHPC moved drilling rigs and other heavy equipment to the site in early 2025, the proposed ₹1.5 lakh-crore project has made little headway because of sporadic anti-dam protests, some of which have recently turned violent.

"We do not want to rush a matter of such importance," Khandu said, adding that consultations with families likely to be affected by the project would continue. "My effort is to find a balanced and responsible way forward-one that protects the national interest while respecting the sentiments, concerns and aspirations of the people."

He said a project of this scale must move forward through participation, transparency and due process. "It cannot be imposed (on the people). It has to be explained." The chief minister, however, reiterated the strategic significance of the project, which has been designated a "national project" by the Centre. He said it should not be viewed merely as a hydropower venture.

"It must be seen in the larger context of India's water security, energy security and long-term national interest, especially in view of developments upstream in Tibet," Khandu said, in an apparent reference to China's construction of a massive dam on the river across the border.

He said more than 2,000 households across 48 villages in Siang and Upper Siang districts have given their consent for pre-feasibility-related activities.

Khandu, who earlier this week completed 10 years as Arunachal Pradesh's chief minister, said hydropower remains central to the state's development strategy, with projects totalling 19 gigawatts and involving investments of nearly Rs 1.9 lakh crore at various stages of development.