As China Plans World’s Largest Dam On Brahmaputra, India Sends A Reminder

Last week China announced that it is building the world’s largest dam in Tibet – even larger than the Three Gorges Dam, which according to NASA, has slowed the Earth’s rotation by 0.06 seconds. But unlike that one, which is built in central China, the new one will be built in an environmentally-sensitive Himalayan zone in Tibet, very close to the border with India.

Besides the impact on the environment, the region is geologically fragile too as it falls in a high seismic zone and hence is prone to earthquakes of a relatively higher magnitude. These are two of several concerns New Delhi has about the gigantic project planned on the Brahmaputra river – which China calls by the name Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet.

Days after Beijing’s announcement about the mega project, New Delhi responded Friday, saying India will “protect its interests”. It also sent a reminder to Beijing reiterating its rights to the waters of the river while also seeking transparency over Beijing’s plans.

For now, the Ministry of External Affairs said, New Delhi will continue to closely monitor the latest developments, adding that necessary and appropriate action will be taken when required.