China’s Brahmaputra Mega-Dam: Construction Begins, Raising Concerns Downstream

China has officially started construction on a massive hydropower dam along the Brahmaputra River in Tibet, close to the Indian border. Premier Li Qiang’s presence at the groundbreaking ceremony underscores the project’s importance to Beijing.

Hydropower Ambitions and Regional Development

The project is a key part of China’s push towards carbon neutrality and aims to boost economic development in the region. However, the sheer scale of the undertaking has sparked significant concerns in downstream countries, particularly India and Bangladesh.

Potential Impacts on Water Flow and Ecology

The dam’s construction raises crucial questions about its potential effects on the Brahmaputra’s water flow. India and Bangladesh rely heavily on the river for agriculture, industry, and drinking water, making any disruption to its natural flow a serious concern. Experts also worry about the dam’s potential impact on the river’s delicate ecosystem and the livelihoods of communities that depend on it.