China Approves World’s Largest Dam on Yarlung Tsangpo River, Raising Regional Alarm
China has approved the construction of the Medog Hydropower Station on the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet, a project that is set to generate three times more electricity than the iconic Three Gorges Dam. This $137 billion mega-project has triggered environmental and geopolitical concerns in neighboring countries, especially India and Bangladesh.
China’s Ambitious Hydropower Plan
On December 25, 2024, China officially announced the green light for the Medog Hydropower Station, which will become the world’s largest dam. Located in Medog County, Tibet Autonomous Region, the dam will harness the powerful currents of the Yarlung Tsangpo as it flows through the world’s deepest canyon, the Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon. The project, costing over one trillion yuan ($137 billion), aims to generate 300 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, far surpassing the output of the Three Gorges Dam.
Chinese officials describe the dam as a key element in their carbon neutrality goals outlined in the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025). The project is expected to boost Tibet’s economic development, create thousands of jobs, and enhance regional energy security.
Environmental and Geopolitical Concerns
Despite China’s enthusiasm, the dam has raised alarms in downstream countries. The Yarlung Tsangpo River originates in Tibet and flows into India as the Brahmaputra, then into Bangladesh as the Jamuna. Experts fear that altering the river’s flow could lead to severe environmental issues, such as increased flooding during the monsoon season and droughts during dry periods.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs expressed concern on January 3, 2025. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “We have consistently raised concerns over mega projects on transboundary rivers. We urge China to ensure that downstream states are not adversely affected.”
Policy expert Neeraj Singh Manhas highlighted the potential risks for India’s northeastern states, such as Arunachal Pradesh and Assam. “Seasonal changes in water flow could disrupt agriculture, hydropower generation, and drinking water supplies,” he warned. In Bangladesh, the dam could worsen soil erosion and reduce sediment deposits vital for agriculture and fisheries.
Seismic and Ecological Risks
The Medog Hydropower Station is located in a seismically active region, which increases the risk of earthquakes and landslides. The Tibetan plateau frequently experiences tectonic activity, and experts caution that the dam’s massive reservoir could exacerbate these risks.
Environmental researcher Manshi Asher stressed the ecological impact, stating, “This project will alter the environmental flows of the river, significantly affecting biodiversity and local ecosystems.”
Tibetan Opposition and Displacement
Tibetan activists have voiced strong opposition, claiming that the project threatens sacred sites and will displace local communities. Previous Chinese dam projects have displaced millions, and although Medog has a lower population density, the risk of disrupting indigenous communities and cultural heritage remains significant.
China’s approval of the Medog Hydropower Station underscores its ambition to lead in renewable energy and infrastructure development. However, the environmental, social, and geopolitical challenges cannot be overlooked. For India and Bangladesh, the dam poses serious risks to water security, agriculture, and regional stability.
Moving forward, diplomatic engagement and transparent dialogue will be crucial to mitigate these risks and ensure sustainable water management in South Asia. The world will be watching closely as this massive project progresses.
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