China Begins Building Mega Dam on Brahmaputra River Near India Border

China has officially started building a massive dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet (called Brahmaputra when it enters India). This project is very close to the Arunachal Pradesh border, a region China refers to as "Zangnan." The dam, known as the Yarlung Tsangpo Dam, is being called one of China’s most ambitious hydropower projects to date.

This river is extremely important to India, as it provides around 45% to 50% of the country’s total fresh water needs. Any major construction on this river upstream, especially without India’s involvement, raises serious concerns about water flow, agriculture, and the environment in northeastern India. Experts worry that it could give China the ability to control water supply during dry seasons or floods.

This move could also impact regional relations, especially as China and Pakistan continue to show growing cooperation. While China claims this dam is for clean energy and flood control, India may see it as a strategic tool. As the situation develops, the project is likely to remain a key topic in India-China diplomacy.