China is embarking on an ambitious project to construct a massive hydropower facility, often referred to as a "super dam," on the Brahmaputra River. This facility is poised to become the world's most powerful hydropower installation, harnessing the river's might at its largest bend.
The proposed dam will be located on China’s stretch of the Brahmaputra River, strategically positioned just before the river crosses into Arunachal Pradesh, India. It is situated at a critical bend where the river plunges into a deep valley, enhancing its power generation potential.
One of the primary concerns for India is the risk of significant flooding if China decides to release substantial volumes of water from the dam. This action could trigger a devastating "water bomb" effect, endangering downstream regions such as Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.
India and China had an agreement in place since 2002 for sharing hydrological data, which was renewed multiple times until it expired in 2023. The renewal process has stalled amidst escalating tensions between the two nations.
Located just 30 kilometers from the Indian border, the dam enables China to exert control over the water flow into India. Such control could potentially be wielded as a strategic tool, posing a risk of abrupt water release and subsequent flooding.
The international community, including strategic think tanks such as the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI), has expressed apprehension about the dam's geopolitical and environmental impacts. The project is perceived as a component of China’s larger regional strategy.
India has several options for responding to this development. Engaging in diplomatic dialogue with China to ensure fair water management practices and renewing data-sharing agreements are critical steps. Additionally, India may need to fortify its flood management infrastructure and enhance disaster preparedness in susceptible areas.
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