China’s Mega-Dam on Brahmaputra: A Ticking Time Bomb for India? Arunachal CM Raises Concerns
China’s Mega-Dam on Brahmaputra: A Ticking Time Bomb for India?
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has expressed grave concerns over China’s ambitious and secretive dam project on the Brahmaputra River, referring to it as a “ticking time bomb.” This massive project, believed to be even larger than the Three Gorges Dam, is raising alarms in India due to its potential downstream impacts.
Why is the Medong Dam Project Causing Concern?
The dam, reportedly being constructed on the Yarlung Tsangpo (the Brahmaputra’s upper course in Tibet), has been shrouded in secrecy, fueling anxieties in India. The lack of transparency from China regarding the project’s scale, purpose, and potential consequences has created uncertainty and distrust.
Potential Threats and Challenges for India
The sheer size of the proposed dam poses a significant threat to downstream regions in India, particularly Arunachal Pradesh and Assam. Concerns include:
- Water Security: Alterations in water flow could impact agriculture, hydropower generation, and access to clean water for millions in India.
- Disaster Risk: The dam’s location in a seismically active zone increases the risk of catastrophic flooding in the event of dam failure or large-scale earthquakes.
- Environmental Impact: The project could have severe ecological consequences, affecting biodiversity and the delicate river ecosystem.
- Geopolitical Tensions: The lack of communication and cooperation from China exacerbates existing geopolitical tensions between the two nations.
The international community is watching this development closely, as the Brahmaputra is a transboundary river vital to the livelihoods of millions across multiple countries. India is urging China for greater transparency and cooperation to address the concerns and mitigate potential risks associated with this massive project.