“China’s dam or the beginning of a water crisis?”
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on the occasion of New Year expressed his deep concern over the massive dam proposed by China on the Brahmaputra river. This river, called Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet, is the lifeline of crores of people. Sarma says that this project can cause huge damage to the fragile ecosystem of the river.
He said, “We have conveyed our concerns to the Government of India on this issue. I am confident that it will be taken into account in the ongoing talks between India and China.” The chief minister also cautioned that the dam could make the Brahmaputra’s water supply completely dependent on rain. If there is not enough rain in Arunachal Pradesh and Bhutan, the river could dry up, creating serious problems for the entire region.
China’s hydropower project: Potential threat
This proposed Chinese project will be one of the world’s largest hydropower projects. But this is not the first time that China’s dam construction has sparked controversy. Assam MLA Akhil Gogoi called it a “water bomb” and said it could be used as a “biological weapon” against India.
Importance of the Brahmaputra River
This river, which originates from Tibet and flows through India and Bangladesh, not only plays an important role in maintaining environmental balance, but is also a means of livelihood for crores of people. In such a situation, China’s plans to build a dam on the river further increase the possibility of water conflict in the future.
India-China water dispute: No compromise
India has also expressed concern over these projects in the past. But the absence of any water-sharing agreement between India and China further complicates the situation. Experts believe that this issue is not just about ecological impact but can also become a cause of geopolitical conflict between the two countries.
Impact on local community: Dam construction can increase the risk of flooding in downstream areas and affect the livelihood of fishermen.
Need for water management agreement: It is time that India and China reach a concrete agreement to share water resources.
Is the future of Brahmaputra river in danger in the shadow of this dam?
This question is important for every Indian. We have to understand that Brahmaputra is not just a river but the heartbeat of millions of lives.
