In the Eastern Himalayas, communities from Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh are uniting against large-scale hydropower projects that threaten their environment and way of life. The Affected Citizens of Teesta (ACT), a group from Sikkim, has expressed solidarity with the Adi community in Arunachal Pradesh, opposing the proposed 12,500 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project. This alliance underscores growing concerns over the ecological and social impacts of such developments in the region.
The 2023 Teesta III Dam Disaster: A Cautionary Tale
On October 4, 2023, a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) from South Lhonak Lake in Sikkim led to the catastrophic failure of the Teesta III dam at Chungthang. The floodwaters destroyed the dam within minutes, resulting in at least 92 fatalities and displacing over 7,000 people. The disaster also damaged infrastructure downstream, including bridges and roads, which isolated communities and left thousands of tourists stranded.
Investigations revealed that the dam’s design was inadequate to withstand such extreme events. The absence of an early warning system and insufficient spillway capacity contributed to the rapid destruction. Experts have since called for comprehensive climate impact assessments for infrastructure projects in the Himalayas.
The Siang Project: Echoes of Past Mistakes
The proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project in Arunachal Pradesh aims to generate 12,500 MW of hydroelectric power. However, local communities, particularly the Adi people, have raised concerns about potential displacement, environmental degradation, and cultural impacts. Protests have erupted in the region, with villagers opposing preliminary surveys and the deployment of security forces.
The National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) has identified multiple sites for the dam’s construction. Despite assurances of development benefits, many locals fear a repeat of the Teesta III disaster, citing similar environmental vulnerabilities and a lack of community consultation.
Solidarity from Sikkim: Learning from Tragedy
The ACT’s support for the Adi community stems from firsthand experience with the consequences of large-scale hydropower projects. The Teesta III disaster highlighted the risks of prioritizing energy generation over ecological and human safety, as evident in the alignment with the Adi people’s protests. ACT emphasizes the importance of inclusive decision-making and sustainable development practices.
This inter-state alliance reflects a broader movement advocating for environmental justice and the rights of indigenous communities in the Himalayas. It calls for a reevaluation of development models that often overlook local voices and ecological considerations.
A Call for Sustainable Development
The collaboration between Sikkim’s ACT and Arunachal’s Adi community underscores the importance of rethinking hydropower projects in ecologically sensitive regions. It advocates for:
- Comprehensive Environmental Assessments: Ensuring that projects undergo rigorous evaluations to understand potential impacts on ecosystems and communities.
- Community Engagement: Involving local populations in decision-making processes to address their concerns and incorporate traditional knowledge.
- Alternative Energy Solutions: Exploring renewable energy options that minimize ecological disruption and respect cultural heritage.
As the Eastern Himalayas face increasing environmental challenges, such alliances underscore the need for development approaches that strike a balance between progress and preservation.
