Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaApril 14, 2026
In a major development push for Arunachal Pradesh’s Siang district, Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Tuesday rolled out projects worth Rs 196.44 crore at Riga village, signalling a renewed focus on infrastructure, connectivity and public services in the region.
During his visit, Khandu laid foundation stones for a series of projects and inaugurated key facilities, calling the package a “transformational step” for the district.
“This is not just about projects. It is about improving daily life for our people — better roads, better schools, better services,” Khandu said while addressing a public gathering.
At the centre of his address was the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), which the Chief Minister described as critical not just for Arunachal Pradesh but for the country as a whole.
“This project is of national importance. It is about our security, our rivers and our future,” he said.
Thanking residents of Riga and nearby villages, Khandu said nearly 70 per cent stakeholders have already backed the Preliminary Feasibility and Allied Reports (PFAR).
“I am grateful to the people who have come forward and supported this. I appeal to others also to understand its importance and join us,” he added.
He stressed that the project would help regulate river flow, prevent floods, ensure water availability and strengthen India’s strategic preparedness, especially in light of developments upstream.
Seeking to address concerns, Khandu clarified that the current stage does not mean final approval for construction.
“PFAR is only the beginning. No final decision will be taken without proper public hearings and consultations with all communities,” he said.
He added that the proposed investment of around ₹1.5 lakh crore under the project could open up large-scale opportunities.
“This will bring jobs, business opportunities, better infrastructure and benefits for landowners. It can change the economic landscape of the region,” he said.
Apart from the mega project, the Chief Minister announced several key initiatives for Siang district, including improvement of Riga township roads, construction of a new Circuit House, an integrated water supply project for Boleng and a modern stadium.
He also congratulated the State’s youth for their achievements in sports.
“Our young people are making us proud. We will continue to invest in sports infrastructure to support their talent,” he said.
Despite inclement weather, Khandu thanked local residents and organisers for turning up in large numbers.
“I truly appreciate the effort everyone has put in despite the rain. I will come back after October, and we may even hold a Cabinet meeting here,” he said.
Reiterating his vision for the future, the Chief Minister called for collective participation in development.
“I want our youth and educated citizens to take the lead. Together, we can build a Viksit Siang by 2047 and contribute to a Viksit Arunachal,” he said.
Among the major projects for which foundation stones were laid are government staff quarters, a women police station at Pangin, cultural halls, hostels, school infrastructure upgrades and multiple road improvement works across the district.
Projects inaugurated include a new ITI at Pangin, a double-lane road to Boleng District Hospital, a Bailey bridge over the Subbung river and a fire station at Boleng.
With this large-scale rollout, the State government aims to strengthen both grassroots infrastructure and long-term strategic capacity in one of Arunachal’s key districts.
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