Concerns Over China’s Great Bend Dam Project

The proposed Great Bend Dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo river has raised alarm among experts and policymakers. This dam, located in Tibet and known as the Brahmaputra in India, is part of China’s broader strategy to enhance its water management capabilities. The International Seminar on Ensuring Water Security, Ecological Integrity, and Disaster Resilience brought into light the potential downstream impacts on India and neighbouring countries. Experts warned that this dam could act as a “water bomb,” threatening communities and ecosystems reliant on the river.

About the Yarlung Tsangpo

The Yarlung Tsangpo river is crucial for several countries in the region. Originating in Tibet, it flows through India and Bangladesh. The river supports millions of people who depend on it for agriculture and drinking water. Any alterations to its flow can have dire consequences for these communities.

Impacts of the Great Bend Dam

Experts predict that the Great Bend Dam could produce 60,000 MW of power. However, the construction poses risks of flooding downstream. Historical precedents, such as the devastating floods in June 2000, illustrate the potential for disaster. The dam could disrupt the natural flow, causing severe ecological and economic repercussions for India and other lower riparian countries.

Multi-Pronged Strategies for Mitigation

Participants discussed the necessity of a multi-faceted approach to tackle the challenges posed by the dam. This includes international collaboration, scientific research, and advocacy at various forums. Experts recommended that India engage in proactive measures to protect its water resources.

Climate Change and Future Predictions

Research indicates that climate change will exacerbate conditions in the Brahmaputra Basin. Studies predict a shift towards more “dry days” downstream, while the Tibetan Plateau may experience increased rainfall. This duality presents challenges for water management and necessitates cooperative strategies.

Call for Collaborative Studies

The need for collaborative studies with China was emphasised during the seminar. Experts noted that a lack of shared research hampers efforts to address potential issues. Enhanced dialogue is essential to develop a comprehensive understanding of the impacts of dam construction.

Role of Local and International Experts

The seminar featured a diverse range of experts from various fields, including ecology, engineering, and international relations. Their collective insights aim to encourage a collaborative dialogue to address the challenges posed by the Great Bend Dam. This initiative aligns with broader goals of promoting water security in the region.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically discuss the implications of the Great Bend Dam on regional water security.
2. Examine the historical context of China’s dam construction and its impact on international relations.
3. Point out the potential ecological consequences of climate change on river basins in South Asia.
4. Analyse the role of collaborative research in managing transboundary water resources effectively.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically discuss the implications of the Great Bend Dam on regional water security.

1. The Great Bend Dam threatens to disrupt the natural flow of the Yarlung Tsangpo/Brahmaputra, impacting water availability for downstream countries.
2. It could act as a “water bomb,” leading to catastrophic flooding similar to the 2000 Siang river floods in Arunachal Pradesh.
3. The dam’s construction aligns with China’s broader strategy to enhance its water management capabilities, potentially aggravating regional tensions.
4. Experts emphasize the need for a water-sharing agreement to mitigate conflicts arising from altered water flows.
5. There is a risk of ecological imbalance, affecting agriculture, drinking water supply, and local ecosystems for millions relying on the river.

2. Examine the historical context of China’s dam construction and its impact on international relations.

1. China has a history of constructing mega dams on major rivers, including 11 on the Mekong, affecting neighboring countries’ water security.
2. The late 1950s invasion of Tibet aimed at controlling river sources has historical implications for regional power dynamics.
3. China’s dam construction often raises concerns about unilateral resource management, leading to tensions with downstream nations like India and Bangladesh.
4. Prior incidents of flooding due to Chinese dams have fueled distrust and calls for international dialogue and agreements.
5. The absence of a comprehensive water-sharing framework could lead to bilateral conflicts and exacerbate geopolitical tensions in the region.

3. Point out the potential ecological consequences of climate change on river basins in South Asia.

1. Climate change may lead to increased variability in precipitation patterns, resulting in more “dry days” downstream of the Tibetan Plateau.
2. Conversely, the Tibetan Plateau could experience more intense rainfall, complicating water management strategies.
3. Altered river flows can disrupt ecosystems, affecting biodiversity and the livelihoods of communities dependent on the river.
4. Increased flooding and droughts could lead to food insecurity and conflict over water resources in the region.
5. Research indicates that climate change may exacerbate existing vulnerabilities in the already water-stressed regions of South Asia.

4. Analyse the role of collaborative research in managing transboundary water resources effectively.

1. Collaborative research encourages shared understanding of water resource challenges, facilitating joint problem-solving among countries.
2. It enables the development of comprehensive data on river systems, crucial for informed decision-making and policy formulation.
3. Engaging in dialogue and research can help build trust among nations, reducing the potential for conflict over water resources.
4. Collaborative studies can identify best practices and innovative solutions for sustainable water management in transboundary contexts.
5. Such research initiatives can attract international support and funding, enhancing the capacity to address shared water security challenges.