China’s New Dam: India Fears Water Wars Amidst Environmental Concerns
China has begun construction on the world’s largest hydropower dam in Tibet, which is raising significant concerns in India and Bangladesh. The dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo river is expected to generate three times more energy than the Three Gorges Dam, potentially giving China control over water resources and impacting downstream communities. Indian officials have expressed fears of the dam causing rivers to “dry up” and acting as a “water bomb,” threatening livelihoods and the environment. Despite China’s claims of prioritizing ecological protection, the project has drawn criticism, with fears of exploitation, environmental damage, and the suppression of Tibetan protests.
John Q. Hosedrinker