River Tourism In India: There is a plan to convert the Lower Pondage area, built on the banks of the Subansiri River, into a tourist centre where a unique confluence of nature, adventure, and local culture can be seen.

Subansiri River

Arunachal Pradesh New Tourism Project Details : Preparations to give tourism in Arunachal Pradesh a new identity are now underway. The state government plans to transform the Lower Pondage area, located on the banks of the Subansiri River, into a tourist destination offering a unique blend of nature, adventure, and local culture. This initiative will not be limited to sightseeing, but rather focuses on providing a holistic experience for tourists.

Opportunity for tourism

The biggest strength of this project is the hydroelectric project around which the entire model is being developed. With a capacity of 2000 MW, this project is considered one of the largest in the country and is expected to be fully operational by December 2026. Four of its units are already operational. The resulting reservoir is now being seen as a new tourism opportunity, especially given the region's rich biodiversity. Chief Minister Pema Khandu has sought the central government's support for this project. He has proposed seeking technical assistance from ministries such as Tourism, Energy, Water Power, Shipping, and Development of the Northeast to ensure a comprehensive project.

Why is this special?

What makes this project unique is its multidimensional format. It will seamlessly develop a range of possibilities, including a natural retreat, adventure activities, water sports, cultural and heritage tours, employment opportunities through aquaculture, and luxury river cruises. The aim is to ensure that every visitor experiences something unique.

Local and tribal communities have been taken care of

This entire plan places local and tribal communities at the center. They will not only be a part of this development, but also its custodians. This is why it is being seen not only as a tourism project but also as a livelihood enhancement initiative. The government hopes that it will provide employment to approximately 2,500 people and attract approximately 150,000 tourists annually. This is also expected to provide a strong foundation for the state's economy.

The CM had undertaken a padayatra.

The first step in this direction is the preparation of a detailed project report. Expert agencies will be involved to address aspects such as cost, implementation, and local participation. It's worth noting that in March this year, the Chief Minister, accompanied by officials, undertook a 45-kilometer-long river journey, from Dollungmukh to the Kamle-Subansiri confluence. He described this journey as a significant step toward understanding the potential and linking tourism with hydropower development. This plan is being seen as an attempt to establish a new identity for Arunachal Pradesh on the tourism map.