The joint project of Meghalaya and Assam proposes a dam on the confluence of Drone, Shree, and Dilma rivers that give birth to Kulshi river, which is known for its highly endangered Ganges River Dolphin.
Boko, Sep 25: Uncertainty looms over the proposed 55 MW Ukiam hydropower project on Assam–Meghalaya border as several organisations, including Garo National Council (GNC) and Rabha National Council (RNC) launched protest and vowed to oppose it tooth and nail.
Representatives of the various organisations, including Assam–Meghalaya Joint Protection Committee, held a protest meeting organised by GNC at Ukiam’s picnic spot on Thursday.
The joint project of Meghalaya and Assam proposes a dam on the confluence of Drone, Shree, and Dilma rivers that give birth to Kulshi river, which is known for its highly endangered Ganges River Dolphin.
Residents of Ukiam and adjoining areas in Meghalaya have been opposing the proposed dam for years, citing ecological and social concerns.
Ahead of the meeting, members of the Garo community offered prayers for the departed soul of popular singer Zubeen Garg, paying floral tributes and lighting candles before his portrait.
In his address, GNC president Enindra Marak dismissed government claims that only 10–15 villages would be affected by the dam, saying, “The impact will not be confined to a few villages. The dam will cause destruction extending from Meghalaya to the Brahmaputra basin in Assam.”
Marak also alleged that construction might be delayed until after 2026 assembly elections to avoid backlash, but could be pushed forward later. He further criticised Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for failing to engage with the people of Ukiam or offer any assurance on the matter.
Launching a sharp attack on state government, RNC chief convenor Gobinda Rabha claimed that nearly 1.9 lakh bighas of land would be affected by the dam.
Calling upon the people of Kamrup district to unite against “anti-people project”, Rabha stressed that projects in tribal belt and block areas must have the consent of local residents.
He also warned that other projects such as proposed Dorabeel Logistics Park at Kukurmara-Palashbari and proposed satellite township at Borduar near Rani would disrupt the ecological balance and adversely impact local communities.
Earlier, local organisations had submitted memorandums to both the Assam and Meghalaya governments demanding cancellation of the project.
On September 19, the Assam–Meghalaya Joint Protection Committee submitted a memorandum to the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), which said the matter should be discussed with the traditional chiefs of Nongmynsaw, Nongkhlaw, and Rambrai areas.
GNC general secretary Chengjan Sangma informed the public that unless the local chiefs issue a no-objection certificate, no dam can be constructed at Ukiam.
