Assam CM: India to Raise Concerns Over China's Brahmaputra Dam

By A Staff Reporter

Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday voiced concerns over China's proposed construction of a dam on the Brahmaputra River, warning about its potential environmental and economic repercussions.

Addressing the media, Sarma said, "This matter is already in our notice. The Government of India has communicated its concern to the Chinese side. I am sure that in the dialogue process, which is presently going on between India and China, this will be raised by the Indian side."

Highlighting the potential impact of the dam, the Chief Minister noted that the Brahmaputra River's ecosystem could become "fragile and dry," leaving downstream regions in India increasingly reliant on rainwater from Arunachal Pradesh and Bhutan.

Sarma emphasized that the issue is a collective concern for northeastern states, adding, "Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister has also raised this issue with the Government of India."

China's plans to build large-scale dams on the Brahmaputra, known as the Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet, have sparked concerns in India about water security and the downstream effects on agriculture, biodiversity, and livelihoods. The Brahmaputra, one of India's major rivers, sustains millions of people across Assam and the broader northeastern region.

The Indian government has been proactive in its diplomatic efforts to address these concerns. Sarma expressed confidence in New Delhi's ability to effectively raise the issue during bilateral discussions with Beijing.