China has defended its $167 billion dam project on the Yarlung Tsangpo River near Arunachal Pradesh. The Chinese government claims the dam lies within its sovereign territory and supports its long-term energy strategy.
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China responds to India’s concerns
India raised concerns over the dam’s ecological and strategic impact. The Yarlung Tsangpo flows into India as the Brahmaputra, a vital river for millions.
On Monday, China’s foreign ministry responded. A spokesperson said, “Hydropower development on the Yarlung Tsangpo is within China’s sovereign rights.” He added that China respects water-sharing agreements and won’t harm downstream interests.
This statement followed recent diplomatic exchanges between the two countries. India had voiced unease over the lack of transparency regarding river infrastructure near its border.
Dam near disputed border region
The project site lies in Medog County, across the border from Arunachal Pradesh. China refers to this region as “South Tibet,” which it claims as its own.
India strongly objects to this claim. The dam’s location has increased New Delhi’s strategic concerns.
When completed, the dam will generate over 70 gigawatts of power—more than triple the capacity of China’s Three Gorges Dam. It will become the world’s largest hydroelectric plant.
India’s foreign ministry warned that activities near disputed borders must be handled with care. It stressed the need for transparency and regional trust.
Environmental and strategic worries
Experts warn of potential changes in water flow and sediment levels. Such changes could disrupt agriculture, fisheries, and drinking water in northeast India.
Environmentalists also question the lack of impact studies. “This region is seismically active. A project of this scale carries serious risks,” said a researcher from the Centre for Policy Research.
The dam also raises strategic concerns. In times of tension, control over river flow can become a geopolitical tool. Though China says it won’t weaponise water, its intent remains debated.
India prepares countermeasures
India has accelerated its own dam projects along the Brahmaputra. New projects aim to store water and improve flood control.
The Jal Shakti Ministry recently reviewed hydrological data-sharing agreements. Under a 2008 MoU, China shares river data during monsoon months. India now seeks a stronger, year-round agreement.
India is also coordinating with Bhutan and Bangladesh. Together, they hope to assess downstream impacts and build multilateral cooperation for river governance.
Political reactions in India
Political voices in India have expressed deep concern. Congress accused the Centre of reacting too slowly. The BJP stated that diplomatic channels remain active and India’s interests are protected.
Defence experts have also raised alarms. A retired general said, “The dam lies too close to Indian military posts. We must monitor it constantly.”
Some analysts see the project as part of China’s broader strategic ambitions. “This isn’t just about power generation. It’s about control and signaling,” said a geopolitical expert.
Regional water politics
China controls the headwaters of major Asian rivers. These include the Brahmaputra, Mekong, and Indus. Many critics believe China uses dams to gain leverage over downstream nations.
While China has some bilateral water-sharing agreements, most lack binding legal terms. Its recent dam-building spree has increased fears of hydro-hegemony.
India, being downstream, remains vulnerable. Experts urge stronger legal frameworks and international engagement to ensure river equity.
China’s $167 billion dam near Arunachal Pradesh adds a new layer to the region’s strategic and environmental tensions. While Beijing insists it has sovereign rights, the downstream impact on India is real.
The situation demands clear diplomacy, scientific cooperation, and regional trust. Only then can both countries manage shared resources without further conflict.
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