China’s ambitious plan to build the world’s largest hydropower dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet raises concerns for downstream nations due to its ecological and strategic implications.
Background of the Dam Project
The Motuo Hydropower Station, situated in the Yarlung Tsangpo canyon, is being constructed in Tibet, with Chinese Premier Li Qiang overseeing the launch. The river, originating in Tibet, flows through India as the Siang and Brahmaputra before entering Bangladesh as the Jamuna.
Significance of the Project
The project, with an estimated cost of 1.2 trillion yuan (USD 167 billion), aims to exceed the Three Gorges Dam in generating clean energy, producing three times more electricity once operational.
Objectives and Features
- Energy Generation: Construction of five cascading hydropower stations utilizing water diverted through 20 km-long tunnels.
- River Engineering: Involves “straightening” sections of the river to maximize hydropower potential.
- National Grid Use: Majority of the power will be transmitted outside Tibet to meet China’s eastern demand, with some serving local needs.
Geopolitical and Environmental Concerns
- India’s Concern: Apprehensions regarding reduced river flow, sudden water releases, or potential use as a “water bomb” in conflict situations.
- Bangladesh’s Concern: Requests for transparency on water flow and dam operations.
- Tibetan Protests: Previous opposition to similar projects resulted in crackdowns, including arrests and injuries.
- Seismic Risk: The earthquake-prone region raises the risk of dam failure.
- Biodiversity Loss: Flooding of ecologically rich valleys may endanger local flora and fauna.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams:
- China is constructing the world’s largest hydropower dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet.
- The dam project raises concerns for downstream nations like India and Bangladesh due to ecological and strategic risks.
- The Motuo Hydropower Station aims to surpass the Three Gorges Dam in energy generation once completed.
- Environmental and geopolitical concerns include impacts on river flow, seismic risks, and biodiversity loss.
