India Calls for Transparency and Dialogue on China’s Mega Dam Project on the Brahmaputra
Why in News?
-
India has raised concerns over China’s plan to build a massive hydropower dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet, which flows into India as the Brahmaputra. The Indian government has called for transparency and dialogue to ensure that downstream interests, including water security, ecological balance, and livelihood protection in Northeast India, are not adversely affected.
Important Key Points:
-
China’s Hydropower Project:
-
China has approved the construction of a $137 billion hydropower dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet, near the Indian border.
-
-
India’s Concerns:
-
Potential disruption of water flow to India’s northeastern states, impacting agriculture and livelihoods.
-
Risk of ecological imbalance and environmental degradation in downstream areas.
-
Lack of transparency and consultation from China regarding the project’s details and implications.
-
-
Official Statements:
-
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has consistently expressed concerns to China about upstream projects affecting downstream regions.
-
India urges China to ensure that the interests of downstream states are not harmed by activities in upstream areas.
-
-
Diplomatic Engagements:
-
India is closely monitoring the situation and has engaged in discussions with China through diplomatic channels to address concerns about the river’s flow and ecological impact due to China’s mega dam project plans.
-
-
China’s Position:
-
China asserts that the dam project has undergone rigorous scientific evaluation and will not adversely affect downstream countries, including India and Bangladesh.
-
