China Approves World’s Largest Dam Near India’s Border

China has sanctioned the construction of the world’s largest dam on the Brahmaputra River in Tibet, close to the Indian border. This ambitious project, estimated to cost $137 billion, has sparked significant concerns in neighboring India and Bangladesh over potential impacts on water flow and regional stability.

Massive Investment and Strategic Location

According to the state-run Xinhua news agency, the Chinese government has approved the development of a hydropower facility on the Yarlung Zangbo River, known as the Brahmaputra in India. The total investment for this mega project could exceed one trillion yuan ($137 billion), making it the most expensive infrastructure project globally. The dam is strategically planned for a colossal gorge in the Himalayas, where the Brahmaputra makes a sharp U-turn before entering Arunachal Pradesh in India and eventually flowing into Bangladesh.

Regional Concerns and Potential Impacts

India has voiced significant concerns regarding the dam, fearing that it could give China control over the river’s water flow, potentially leading to flooding in border areas. The control of water resources is a critical issue in this region, as the Brahmaputra is a vital water source for both India and…