Pema Khandu has announced plans to develop the Subansiri Lower pondage into a world-class tourism hub focused on ecotourism, adventure activities, cultural experiences and sustainable livelihoods in Arunachal Pradesh. The proposed tourism project will be built around the 2,000 MW Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project, located on the Subansiri river. The hydropower project, considered India’s largest hydroelectric project, is expected to be fully commissioned by December 2026, with four units already operational.
According to the proposal, the tourism hub will include ecotourism activities, water sports, cultural and heritage tourism, inland fisheries, luxury river cruises and other river-based experiences. The state government aims to develop the area into a high-value tourism destination inspired by internationally known locations such as Phewa Lake in Nepal and Milford Sound in New Zealand. Khandu has written to Narendra Modi seeking support from the Centre and technical collaboration from several ministries, including tourism, power and waterways.
The chief minister said local tribal communities would remain central to the project as stakeholders and beneficiaries. The initiative is expected to create more than 2,500 jobs, especially for local youths, while aiming to attract over 1.5 lakh tourists annually in the coming years.
