China begins construction of $167.8 billion Brahmaputra dam near India border

China has officially kicked off the construction of a massive dam project on the Brahmaputra River (called Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet), right near the Arunachal Pradesh border. The mega-project is valued at $167.8 billion (¥1.2 trillion), and aims to become the world’s largest hydroelectric power complex.

🔧 Project Highlights: Location: Nyingchi, Tibet — close to India’s Arunachal Pradesh

Scope: 5 cascade dams across the river

Power Output: ~300 billion kilowatt-hours annually (enough to power 300 million people)

🌏 Why It Matters: Geopolitical tension: It’s being built in a disputed and sensitive area. India has long opposed dam projects on the Brahmaputra due to the risk of water control and diversion.

Environmental risk: The Himalayan region is prone to earthquakes. Experts warn this dam could increase seismic and ecological risks in the area.

Downstream impact: India and Bangladesh could face reduced water flow and increased flood threats, potentially disrupting agriculture and drinking water supplies.

🧭 China's View: Beijing claims the dam is critical for:

Tibet’s development

Green energy goals

Reducing coal dependence

Officials have labeled it a "project of the century."

🔔 India’s Response: India has expressed serious concern and urged China to respect downstream rights.

Diplomatically, India seeks transparency and data sharing from China, especially during monsoon seasons.

⚠️ What to Watch: Will China offer real-time water data to India?

How will this change water diplomacy in South Asia?

Are more hydropower megaprojects coming in the region?