China is planning to build a massive hydroelectric dam on the Brahmaputra River, which flows through Tibet, India, and Bangladesh. This project, termed a "Super Dam," has raised concerns in India about potential environmental and geopolitical impacts. The Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) recently released a report highlighting the strategic aspects of China’s plans.
Why is This Project Controversial?
Geographical Advantage: The Brahmaputra River takes a sharp U-turn, forming a ‘half-moon’ shape before entering India. This area is strategically favorable for China to construct a dam, potentially giving them control over water flow.
Hydropower Potential: The proposed location is advantageous for generating a high amount of electricity with minimal cost, making it an attractive site for China to develop what could be the world’s most powerful hydroelectric project.
Impact on India
Flood Risks: If China releases large volumes of water from this dam, it could lead to severe flooding in India’s northeastern states, especially Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.
Geopolitical Tensions: The dam's proximity, just 30 kilometers from the Indian border, adds to geopolitical tensions. The project is viewed as part of China's broader strategy in the region, potentially serving as a "water bomb" if tensions escalate.
The 2002 Brahmaputra Agreement
India and China have an agreement dating back to 2002 regarding the sharing of hydrological data about the Brahmaputra River. This agreement has been renewed periodically, with the last renewal in 2018, but it expired in 2023 amid rising tensions.
Potential Threats
The construction of this super dam poses significant risks to India. Unregulated water releases could cause devastating floods in Arunachal Pradesh, leading to considerable damage. The ASPI report warns that this move is part of China's larger strategic play near the Arunachal Pradesh border.
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