Arunachal: Newly elected NCP MLA opposes mega dams in state

Toko Tatung, the newly elected NCP MLA from the 16th Yachuli assembly constituency in Arunachal Pradesh, has voiced strong concerns about the construction of mega dams in the state.

Speaking exclusively to India Today, Tatung emphasised the environmental and ecological risks associated with large-scale dam projects.

Tatung urged the government to consider smaller dams and mini hydel projects, which he argued have a lesser impact on the environment. "Mega dams are not successful anywhere in the world and can pose significant threats if they have defects," he stated.

Highlighting the potential of horticulture in Arunachal Pradesh, Tatung noted that the state has 18 lakh hectares of fertile land. He believes that large-scale, high-quality horticulture production could significantly boost the state's export revenue, potentially surpassing that of Jammu and Kashmir and even the cardamom exports of Nepal.