Overview
On 8 October 2026, more than 2,000 villagers from the Bodo, Garo, Khasi and Rabha communities gathered at Ukiam to reaffirm their opposition to a proposed 55‑MW hydropower‑cum‑irrigation project on the Kulsi River. The dam site lies at the Assam‑Meghalaya border, about 80 km southwest of Guwahati, and is located in a habitat of the endangered Gangetic dolphin.
Key Developments
- The AMJPC organised the rally.
- Three traditional chiefs — Kestor Manik Syiem Iich, Phlowing Syiem Nongbak and Order Syiem Sad — publicly declared that they would not issue a NOC for the dam.
- AMJPC president Albert Nonglang warned that the dam would affect 46 villages across both states and that monetary compensation would not cover long‑term displacement impacts.
- The Ministry of Jal Shakti claims the project will irrigate 26,000 hectares and mitigate floods.
- The Brahmaputra Board estimates the cost at ₹1,454.95 crore (June 2017 price).
Important Facts
The proposed dam would be 62 metres high and sit at the confluence of the Dron, Shree and Dilma rivers. It is expected to generate 55 MW of electricity, irrigate 26,000 ha, and provide flood control benefits. However, the project threatens the habitat of the Gangetic dolphin and would displace communities in the Kamrup district (Assam) and West Khasi Hills district (Meghalaya). Traditional chiefs hold statutory authority to grant or deny a NOC, and they have refused consent.
Exam Relevance
- Inter‑state water disputes and joint project planning – relevant to GS2: Polity (federal‑state relations).
- Role of traditional chiefs and tribal self‑governance – links to GS2: Polity (tribal rights, customary law).
- Environmental impact on an endangered species – pertinent to GS3: Environment (biodiversity conservation).
- Economic assessment of large‑scale infrastructure – ties to GS3: Economy (cost‑benefit analysis, irrigation economics).
- Ministry of Jal Shakti’s policy objectives – part of GS3: Economy (water resource management).
Way Forward
For a sustainable resolution, the governments should:
- Conduct a comprehensive environmental impact assessment (EIA) that includes the Gangetic dolphin and tribal livelihoods.
- Engage in genuine consultation with the traditional chiefs and community representatives before any approval.
- Explore alternative designs that reduce displacement, such as a lower dam height or run‑of‑the‑river scheme.
- Consider a joint‑state water‑sharing agreement that addresses the long‑standing border dispute while safeguarding ecological zones.
Until these steps are taken, the project is likely to face continued resistance and possible legal challenges, making it a critical case study for inter‑state cooperation, tribal rights, and sustainable development.