India has expressed its concerns over China’s plan to construct the world’s largest dam on the Brahmaputra River in Tibet. The dam is set to be built in an ecologically sensitive area near the Indian border, heightening worries for both the countries, the lower riparian states. India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized that China did not inform India about the project, a violation of an established convention between the two countries. This came to India’s attention via media reports. India has now urged China to ensure that the dam does not harm the interests of downstream countries. The construction is expected to cost around USD 137 billion, and it is seen as one of the largest infrastructure projects globally, surpassing even China’s Three Gorges Dam.
Read More: China Plans To Construct World’s Largest Dam In Tibet, Might Pose Risks For India And Bangladesh
India has repeatedly raised concerns about China’s hydropower projects on the Brahmaputra, especially mega projects that could affect the river’s flow. Officials have stressed that China must consult both India and Bangladesh, the countries relying on the river’s waters. India’s spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, stated that India has consistently communicated these concerns via diplomatic and expert-level channels. Furthermore, India has emphasized the need for transparency in such projects to safeguard the interests of all affected nations.
Jaiswal reaffirmed that India would continue to monitor the situation and take necessary actions to protect its water rights. While China insists that the project will not adversely impact downstream regions, India remains wary about its potential consequences on water flow and ecology in the region.
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In response to concerns, China has downplayed the project’s potential risks. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reassured that extensive studies had been conducted to ensure the project’s safety. She insisted that the dam would not negatively affect the lower reaches of the river. Despite these reassurances, India remains unconvinced, citing the need for proper consultation and transparency.
The dam is set to be constructed at a significant gorge where the Brahmaputra River curves sharply. This location is crucial as it lies near the border region of Arunachal Pradesh in India and eventually flows into Bangladesh. India is particularly concerned about how the project could impact water availability and the environment in these downstream areas.
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In another development, India has lodged a formal protest against China’s creation of two new counties in Aksai Chin, a region claimed by India and administered by China. The counties, He’an and Hekang, are part of China’s Hotan Prefecture in Xinjiang. India’s MEA spokesperson made it clear that India does not recognize the legitimacy of China’s occupation of Aksai Chin. The establishment of these counties, India argued, would not alter its position on sovereignty over the region.
India has consistently rejected China’s occupation of Aksai Chin, and the creation of these counties will not affect its longstanding stance. Moreover India has raised its protest through diplomatic channels and reaffirmed its territorial claims.
India’s concerns regarding China’s hydropower project on the Brahmaputra and the establishment of new counties in Aksai Chin highlight the growing tensions in the region. Both issues concern India’s territorial integrity and its water security. As China continues with its infrastructure projects and territorial claims, India remains vigilant and committed to protecting its interests, particularly in sensitive border areas.
