China's enormous Brahmaputra dam sparks regional tensions
China has approved the construction of the world's largest dam on the Brahmaputra River (Chinese: Yarlung Zangbo) near the Indian border. The £112 billion project raises concerns in India and Bangladesh. The dam could enable the control of water flow, which could lead to flooding in border areas in case of conflict.
China approved the construction of this enormous dam on the Brahmaputra River, known in Tibet as Yarlung Zangbo. According to "The Hindu," this project, valued at £112 billion, is to be built in Tibet, close to the Indian border, causing concern among neighbouring countries: 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 China's Three Gorges Dam, aims to generate over 300 billion 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 tool of pressure, and the refusal of hydrological cooperation could serve as a political lever. Although India has its own plans for related investments, it also feels uneasy observing China's actions in an international context.
In response to these concerns, China assures that the project is safe and that ecological protection is a priority. The dam is also intended to support the development of renewable energy in the region.
China's ambitions to control 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 affect soil salinity and alter water resources in neighbouring countries.
Potential consequences of building the super dam include ecological changes and population displacement.
