Concerns are mounting in India regarding a massive dam being constructed by China on the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet. BJP Member of Parliament from Arunachal Pradesh, Tapir Gao, has labeled it a "Water Bomb," warning that the release of water from this dam could lead to devastating floods in Northeast India and downstream countries like Bangladesh.
China Water Bomb: Arunachal Pradesh BJP MP Tapir Gao expressed deep concern over China's announcement of building the world's largest dam. He characterized it not merely as a hydroelectric project, but as a "water bomb" with the potential to cause widespread devastation in Northeast India and Bangladesh in the future.
Speaking at a conference in Guwahati, Gao stated, "The dam China is building will be capable of generating 60,000 megawatts of electricity, but it's not just an energy project; it's also a strategic water weapon." He cited the devastating floods of June 2000, claiming that the release of water from China caused the Siang River to swell, resulting in the collapse of several bridges in Arunachal Pradesh.
China's Strategy and India's Challenge
The dam's construction is underway in Medog County, from where the Yarlung Tsangpo River enters India as the Siang and later becomes the Brahmaputra in Assam. Experts believe this project is not solely about hydropower but represents a significant move by China towards regional water control. Bertil Lintner, a Swedish journalist residing in Thailand and attending the conference, stated that China's control over the Tibetan plateau is not just about land but also a strategy to dominate major Asian rivers.
Lack of Transparency and Scientific Concerns
Professor Anamika Baruah of IIT Guwahati warned that India currently lacks sufficient data and scientific resources to assess the impact of China's proposed dam. She stated, "China is not sharing any information. We can't even estimate the impact if this dam bursts or water is released."
What are India's Options?
MP Tapir Gao suggested that India should construct its own dam on the Siang River to control water pressure in emergency situations. He also urged the central government to engage in intensive diplomatic dialogue with China on this issue. Experts participating in the conference also demanded that India initiate efforts towards a water-sharing agreement with China to prevent future conflicts.
Increased Threat of a Water War on the Brahmaputra
Dr. Ranbir Singh, Chairman of the Brahmaputra Board, warned that while the Brahmaputra valley is one of India's most water-rich regions, China's project could threaten its water balance. He added that if a scientific and diplomatic solution is not found in time, it could mark the beginning of Asia's most serious water crisis.
