China's $137B Brahmaputra dam raises regional tensions
China has approved the construction of the world's largest dam on the Brahmaputra River (Chinese: Yarlung Zangbo), near the border with India. The $137 billion project is raising concerns in India and Bangladesh. The dam could enable control of water flow, which, in the case of conflict, could lead to flooding in border areas.
China approved the construction of the world's largest dam on the Brahmaputra River, known in Tibet as Yarlung Zangbo. According to the portal "The Hindu," this project, valued at $137 billion, is set to be built in Tibet, close to the Indian border. This is causing concern among neighbouring countries, namely India and Bangladesh.
The dam, part of China's 14th Five-Year Plan, will be built where the Brahmaputra River makes a wide turn before flowing into Arunachal Pradesh and Bangladesh.
This project, which is larger than other infrastructure investments, including the Chinese Three Gorges Dam, aims to generate over 300 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy annually.
The dam as a water weapon
India expresses concerns that the dam could allow China to control the flow of water, which, in case of conflict, could lead to flooding in border areas.
China may use water control as a pressure tool, and refusing hydrological cooperation could be a political lever. Despite its plans for related investments, India also feels uneasy observing Chinese actions in an international context.
In response to these concerns, China assures that the project is safe, prioritizing ecological protection. The dam is also intended to support the development of renewable energy in the region.
China's ambitions regarding control of rivers like the Brahmaputra affect relations with India and Bangladesh. The impoundment of water from the Brahmaputra also raises concerns about agriculture and fishing, which could impact soil salinity and lead to changes in the water resources of neighbouring countries.
Potential consequences of building the super dam include ecological changes and population displacements.
