Introduction: China’s Big Dam on the Brahmaputra
China has started building the world’s largest hydropower dam on the Yarlung Zangbo
River in Tibet, which flows into India as the Brahmaputra. This massive project includes five
dams across a steep gorge and is expected to produce around 300 billion kWh of electricity
each year. It’s located close to Arunachal Pradesh, an area with ongoing border tensions
between India and China. This has raised serious concerns in India.
Why This Dam Matters: Water and Power
The dam gives China more control over the flow of water in the region. With earlier dams
like the Zangmu Dam already running and this new 60 GW Medog project approved in 2024,
China can now control how much water goes downstream. Though it's called a 'run-of-the-
river' project, its large size allows it to hold back or suddenly release water. This could
affect India and Bangladesh, both of which rely heavily on the Brahmaputra River.
Environmental Concerns and Local Impact
The Brahmaputra River supports nearly 1.8 billion people in South Asia. It brings not just
water but also rich silt that helps farming in Assam and Bangladesh. China’s dam could stop
this silt from flowing, harming farming and fish habitats. Plus, the area is earthquake-prone.
A dam failure or sudden water release could cause major flooding and damage downstream.
India’s Response: Building Its Own Dams
India is pushing back by planning its own dams. One major project is the 11 GW Siang Upper
Multipurpose Project (SUMP), meant to protect the river flow. This dam can store 9 billion
cubic meters of water. However, local communities, especially the Adi tribe, are against it.
They fear losing their villages and sacred river areas. Still, Indian leaders say it’s needed to
balance China’s growing control.
Lack of Cooperation and Open Dialogue
China has not shared much information about this project with other countries. There are
no strong international agreements in place. India wants regular updates and shared water
data, but China treats it as an internal matter and offers only basic statements. This lack of
trust makes the situation worse.
Border Tensions and Water as a Weapon
This project is happening at a time of military tension between India and China, like the
2020 clash in Galwan Valley. If China ever decides to use water flow as a weapon—by
holding back water or releasing floods—it could cause real damage. India’s dams are not
just about water—they are also about protecting national interests.
Impact on Bangladesh and the Region
Bangladesh, which is downstream, is also worried. Its farms and homes rely on the
Brahmaputra. Without open communication and early warnings, sudden floods or water
shortages could harm millions. This situation is part of a bigger global issue, where control
of rivers causes disputes, like in the Nile and Mekong regions.
What Might Happen in the Future
2025–2030: India speeds up its own dam projects. Protests grow. Talks between countries
become tense.
2030s–2040s: China starts using the dam. Any changes in water flow will be watched
closely. This could lead to stronger responses from India.
2040 and beyond: Without an agreement, water issues may become permanent problems.
Climate change could make things worse with more droughts and floods.
What Needs to Be Done
1. India, China, and Bangladesh should work together on a river management deal.
2. Share data about water flow and flood warnings.
3. Include local people in planning and managing dams.
4. Create ways to monitor river health and solve disputes openly.
Conclusion: The Brahmaputra Needs Peace, Not Politics
China’s mega dam is more than a power project—it’s a new source of tension. It could hurt
the environment and the people who rely on the river. Only through trust, teamwork, and
open talks can South Asia avoid a water crisis. The Brahmaputra must remain a river of
life—not conflict.