Arunachal’s anti-dam protests spread as agitators oppose 1,605 MW Menga hydropower project

Guwahati: Protests against hydropower projects in Arunachal Pradesh have expanded, with demonstrators now opposing the 1,605 MW Subansiri Upper Hydroelectric Project, known as the Menga Dam.

Normal life was disrupted across Arunachal Pradesh's Upper Subansiri district on Monday as student organisations enforced a 12-hour bandh, demanding the withdrawal of the proposed project.

The shutdown, which began at 5 am, affected markets, commercial establishments and public transport. A senior police officer said there were large-scale incidents of arson, vandalism and confrontations with the police. "Some policemen were also injured," the officer said.


The police officer said a vehicle was set on fire and electronic equipment and surveying tools at an NHPC-related office were also damaged. The unrest also led to the cancellation of a public hearing scheduled in connection with the proposed project.

The bandh was called by All-Tagin Students' Union in collaboration with the Daporijo Students' Union, SINALITASU, Taliha Students' Union, Dumporijo Students' Union, land-affected forums and other community groups.

Protesters have demanded the permanent withdrawal of the project, citing concerns over its potential impact on environment, livelihoods, indigenous rights and the interests of communities that are likely to be affected. Residents have also raised questions about the safety of a mega dam in a seismically sensitive region.

The bandh comes in the backdrop of the massive protests over the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project in other parts of Arunachal Pradesh.