An expert panel of the Union Environment Ministry has granted environmental clearance to the 1,000 megawatt (MW) Naying Hydro Electric Project on the Siyom River in Siang and Shi?Yomi districts, close to the India?China border. The run?of?the?river scheme received the recommendation for green clearance, paving the way for further statutory approvals and eventual construction. The clearance marks a significant step in plans to harness hydropower potential in the north?east.

The project envisages four units of 250 megawatt (MW) each and is expected to generate around 4,967 gigawatt hours (GWh) annually. The development is being led by the North Eastern Electric Power Corporation (NEEPCO) and includes a concrete gravity dam and an underground powerhouse. Officials say the scheme is projected to bring economic benefits to the region and bolster national energy security.

The Central Electricity Authority had given concurrence in 2013 and initial plans foresaw construction beginning around 2015, but the project faced prolonged delays. Environmental and social concerns including forest land diversion and potential impacts on local biodiversity contributed to the pause, and public hearings were held as recently as late 2025. Following the recent clearance recommendation, construction is anticipated to commence around 2028 with full commissioning targeted for 2032.

The Naying approval accompanies progress on several major hydropower initiatives in Arunachal Pradesh, including the 2,000 megawatt (MW) Lower Subansiri project, the 2,880 megawatt (MW) Dibang Multipurpose Project and the 3,097 megawatt (MW) Etalin scheme. Other noteworthy projects include the 700 megawatt (MW) Tato?II, the 680 megawatt (MW) Attunli, the 1,720 megawatt (MW) Kamala and the 1,200 megawatt (MW) Kalai?II, many backed by central investments running into thousands of crores.

Authorities describe the decision as aligned with the Centre's push to expand green energy and reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels. Hydropower is presented as a reliable renewable resource that can support grid stability, create employment and improve infrastructure in remote districts while pursuing sustainable development in ecologically sensitive border areas.