12-Hour Shutdown Against Hydropower Project Disrupts Life in Arunachal Pradesh

Daporijo: Normal life was disrupted across Arunachal Pradesh’s Upper Subansiri district on Monday, October 26, as a 12-hour shutdown called by two student organisations turned violent. Protesters opposing the proposed 1,605-MW Subansiri Upper Hydroelectric Project blocked roads, burnt tyres and allegedly set a vehicle ablaze, while shops remained closed and public transport was suspended.

The All Tagin Students’ Union (ATSU) and All Upper Subansiri District Students’ Union (AUSDSU) demanded permanent cancellation of the project, citing environmental and livelihood concerns. Tensions escalated following an alleged police raid at the ATSU president’s residence, while a scheduled public hearing was cancelled. Security personnel were deployed to maintain order.