WSSU flags IGGL project in Western Sumi areas

Western Sumi Students’ Union (WSSU) has raised serious concerns over safety and other protocols regarding the ongoing gas pipeline project undertaken by Indradhanush Gas Grid Limited (IGGL), which passes through areas inhabited by the Western Sumi community.
In a press statement, WSSU president Ikato Khulu and general secretary Vitoka N. Rochill informed that while the construction of the pipeline was nearing completion and expected to be operational soon; it objected to the manner in which the project was carried out. WSSU said the process lacked proper consultation, transparency, and adequate awareness among the affected landowners and general public.
It also noted that several incidents of gas pipeline bursts across the country have resulted in loss of lives and damage to property and that should serve as a warning before implementing a mega project. The issues over which WSSU raised concerns included:
Lack of proper consultation: WSSU alleged that affected communities and landowners in the Western Sumi areas were not adequately consulted or informed regarding the scope, risks, and safety protocols associated with the project.
Safety risks in a disaster-prone region: WSSU said that Western Sumi areas fall under Seismic Zone V, a high-risk earthquake zone. It warned that any future seismic activity could result in ruptures, leaks, or explosions along the pipeline route, endangering lives and the environment.
Development must not compromise safety: WSSU asserted that development efforts must prioritize human life and safety over commercial interests. Without public safety assurances and disaster preparedness in place, it said the risks far outweigh the benefits.
Environmental and livelihood concerns: The union stated that the land through which the pipeline runs was integral to the community’s livelihood, culture, and heritage. A disaster could lead to irreversible damage to agricultural land, water sources, and homes, it added.
Lack of public assurance and accountability: WSSU expressed dismay that IGGL has not made public any clear information about emergency response protocols, compensation mechanisms in the event of disaster, or safety audits and monitoring systems.
Compensation does not equal safety compliance: The union argued that merely paying compensation to individual landowners cannot justify the lack of broader safety precautions. “Compensation cannot be an excuse to ignore the potential dangers posed to the general public,” it stated. The union said that safety, rights and well-being of the wider community must remain paramount and no amount of land compensation can absolve the authorities or company from their responsibility to ensure public safety.
WSSU further maintained that acceptance of compensation by some individuals cannot be taken as blanket approval for the project, especially in the absence of full legal and safety compliance.
The union firmly stated that it would oppose the commencement of any operational activity related to the gas pipeline in Western Sumi areas unless public safety measures and consultations are carried out in a transparent manner by IGGL and the state government.
The union demanded proper public engagement from IGGL, State government, and all relevant agencies. The rights, safety, and consent of our people must be prioritized,” WSSU asserted.
Clarification:
WSSU clarified that its opposition was not directed against development, acknowledging that infrastructure projects could contribute to progress. However, it asserted that it would firmly oppose any project– including the ongoing gas pipeline– until all necessary safety measures, public consultations, and risk management plans were properly addressed and transparently shared with the public by IGGL and the State government.
Appeal:
WSSU appealed to the state government to immediately intervene and address the concerns before allowing further progress on the project.
It also urged IGGL and relevant authorities to uphold transparency, accountability, and respect for the people of Western Sumi areas.
WSSU called upon all community members and organisations to remain united and vigilant in safeguarding the welfare and rights of the people.
The union also warned IGGL to refrain from carrying out further work on the project, cautioning that failure to comply would be “at their own risk.”