Pasighat (Arunachal Pradesh), 24 October (HS): Normal life in Pasighat remained disrupted on Saturday, with shops and commercial establishments staying closed following violent protests against the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) the previous night.

The town witnessed heightened tensions after demonstrations opposing the hydropower project escalated into violence. Reports indicated that a police station, an NHPC office and several vehicles were set ablaze during the unrest.

It may be mentioned that the protests came amid growing opposition to the proposed project, with several organisations having called for a shutdown across Siang, East Siang and Upper Siang districts on Friday.

Security arrangements have been tightened in Pasighat following the incidents, while the closure of businesses reflected the continuing impact of the unrest on normal activities in the town.

Further developments are awaited as authorities monitor the situation.------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash