China Begins Mega-Dam On Brahmaputra Alarming India

BEIJING/NEW DELHI (IANS)- China on July 19 officially began construction on a mega dam project in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Tsangpo — the upper reaches of the Brahmaputra River — in Tibet. This development has raised significant concerns in downstream countries, including India and Bangladesh.

The project mainly adopts the development method of straightening the bends and diverting water through tunnels, and builds five cascade power stations with a total investment of about $167.8 billion dollars.

While the Chinese government insists the project will primarily deliver electricity for external consumption and address local demand in Xizang, its construction could severely harm the interests of downstream states of the Brahmaputra.

Following China’s announcement of the mega dam project, New Delhi registered its concerns with the Chinese side on December 30 last year. These concerns included “the need for transparency and consultation” with downstream countries.