Key Highlights
- China announced plans for the world’s largest dam on the Brahmaputra River in Tibet, reassuring no negative impact on lower reaches.
- The project aims to accelerate clean energy development while addressing climate change and extreme hydrological events.
- India and Bangladesh express apprehensions about potential control over water flow and ecological impacts.
China’s Position
Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that the hydropower project in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River (Brahmaputra in India) has been meticulously studied to ensure environmental security. The project aligns with China’s goals for clean energy advancement, disaster mitigation, and combating climate change. Ning emphasized that communication and cooperation with lower riparian countries, like India and Bangladesh, would continue to benefit communities reliant on the river.
Key Details of the Project
- Scale: This mega-dam, set to surpass the Three Gorges Dam, is expected to be the world’s largest infrastructure project, with an investment exceeding USD 137 billion.
- Location: Built at a critical gorge in Tibet, the river forms a U-turn before entering India.
- Previous Efforts: The USD 1.5 billion Zam Hydropower Station commenced operations in 2015 as part of China’s long-term clean energy strategy.
Strategic Implications
- India’s Concerns: India’s apprehensions revolve around China’s capacity to control water flow, potentially impacting agricultural regions downstream or weaponizing water release during conflicts.
- Data-Sharing Arrangements: Mechanisms established between India and China since 2006 facilitate sharing of trans-border river hydrological data. Recent discussions in December 2024 reaffirmed both nations’ intent to maintain cooperation.
Challenges and Risks
- Seismic Activity: The Tibetan plateau’s location on a tectonic plate boundary poses engineering risks due to frequent earthquakes.
- Environmental and Regional Impact: The potential ecological and socio-economic consequences for downstream regions remain central concerns for India and Bangladesh.
A Pivotal Moment
As construction begins, balancing ecological integrity, regional stability, and clean energy goals will be crucial. Diplomatic dialogue and sustained transparency will be pivotal in addressing the apprehensions of affected nations while advancing global renewable energy efforts.
Leave a Reply