ES Reporter

ITANAGAR, Aug 11: A strong wave of opposition has emerged against the impending signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoA) for 13 new major hydroelectric projects (HEPs) in various districts of Arunachal Pradesh.
The Human Rights Law Network(HRLN),Indigenous Research Advocacy Dibang(IRAD),Acheso Atih Welfare Association (AAWA) and Siang Indigenous Farmer Forum (SIFF) vehemently opposed the proposed signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoA).
Speaking to the media, Advocate Ebo MIlli, a member of HRLN  stated the government's plan to sign MoAs with major public undertakings for projects such as Amulin HEP (420 MW), Emini HEP (500 MW), Etalin HEP (3097 MW), Mihundo Hydroelectric Project (420 MW), and Attunli HEP (680 MW) have sparked outrage among the local community.
In a letter addressed to the government, the collective has voiced its disapproval, emphasizing their deep-rooted belief that their land and resources should not be compromised without due consideration of the consequences. They expressed concern over the irreversible loss of ancestral relationships with forests and rivers, impacting the cultural fabric of the community.
Moreover, they questioned the lack of transparency and public consultation in the decision-making process, highlighting the absence of consideration for the cumulative impacts of multiple projects within the same basin. Citing a memorandum dated 28th May 2013 from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), they emphasize the need for comprehensive cumulative impact assessments before proceeding with such projects.
The collective also raised questions about compliance with the Forest Rights Act (FRA), asserting that Gram Sabha consent is essential for compensatory and ameliorative measures associated with forest diversion. They expressed surprise at the absence of such consent in the case of the 2880 MW Dibang Multipurpose Project (DMP) and urged the government to address this issue.
Drawing attention to the potential adverse impacts of large-scale hydroelectric projects, the collective implored the government to consider the negative consequences that could unfold after construction. They emphasized the potential for displacement, earthquakes, floods and poverty, citing examples from similar projects across India and the world.
The collective firmly urged the government to halt the signing of MoAs related to Dibang Valley until transparent and meaningful consultations are conducted with the local community.
Meanwhile, Milli also informed that All Idu Mishmi Students Union (AIMSU) has called for a bandh in Dibang Valley district against the signing of MoU with power developers.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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