Demand for proper study on Dibang Multipurpose Project

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the ₹1600 crore expenditure for pre-investment activities for the Dibang Multipurpose Project in Arunachal Pradesh. The lawmaker from Assam, Bordoloi, however, criticised the central government for not giving due attention to the perennial flood problem of the state.

New Delhi: A day after Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the initial Rs 1600 crore for 2880 MW Dibang Multipurpose Project in Arunachal Pradesh, former Assam Minister and sitting Congress MP Pradyut Bordoloi demanded a comprehensive study before initiating the project.

"There should be a proper study on the impact of this dam over downstream areas. If the Government goes with this project without carrying out a proper study, it will bring catastrophe for Assam," said Bordoloi.

The previous UPA government had earlier opposed the project.

"Assam is in the downstream of Dibang river. If Government creates a huge dam on Dibang, it would definitely invite calamity for the state," said Borodoloi.

The project is located on river Dibang, in Lower Dibang Valley district of Arunachal Pradesh. The project shall generate 2880 MW power to produce 1122 MU of energy in a 90 per cent dependable year. This is the largest ever Hydroelectric project to be constructed in India.

Though, a 2000 MW Lower Subansiri Project along Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border is lying idle for last several years after several organisations opposed the project.

Dibang Multipurpose project (Dibang MPP) is envisaged as a storage-based hydroelectric project with flood moderation as the key objective.

The lawmaker from Assam, Bordoloi, however, criticised the central government for not giving due attention to the perennial flood problem of the state.

"It should be announced as a national problem. The Government should also release adequate funds to cope up with the situation," said Bordoloi.

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