China Approves World’s Largest Dam on Brahmaputra River in Tibet

China has approved the construction of the world’s largest dam on the Yarlung Zangbo River in Tibet near the Indian border.

The dam, estimated to cost $137 billion, is projected to generate 300 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually.

This project is part of China’s 14th Five-Year Plan and its long-term goals for transitioning to cleaner energy sources.

The dam’s energy capacity will surpass the Three Gorges Dam but raises concerns about displacement and environmental impacts.

Neighboring countries, especially India and Bangladesh, are concerned about water flow alterations affecting agriculture and biodiversity.

The dam’s strategic location gives China significant leverage in regulating water flow, potentially creating geopolitical tensions.

India is constructing its own dam in Arunachal Pradesh as a countermeasure to secure its water resources.

Disruption to the river’s ecosystem could threaten biodiversity and livelihoods dependent on agriculture and fisheries.

 Experts emphasize the need for regional cooperation and transparent dialogue to manage the shared river sustainably.