DHAKA, Aug 10: A recent Northeast News report has raised alarm over China’s construction of a massive $170 billion hydropower dam in Tibet on the Brahmaputra River, warning of potentially catastrophic consequences for Bangladesh. Over 160 million Bangladeshis rely on the Brahmaputra—locally known as the Jamuna—for agriculture, water, and livelihoods. The report criticizes Dhaka’s diplomatic over-reliance on China, arguing that Bangladesh has failed to recognize the risks of Beijing’s emerging “hydro-hegemony.”
The dam threatens to severely disrupt sediment flow, which is critical for maintaining soil fertility in Bangladesh’s delta region. Loss of this nutrient-rich sediment could significantly reduce rice yields, undermining food security and agricultural productivity.
The report draws parallels to China’s actions on the Mekong River, where upstream dams have caused major ecological and economic damage to downstream countries. China’s lack of transparency—refusing to share hydrological data or environmental impact assessments—has sparked fears of similar outcomes on the Brahmaputra. Beijing has cited “sovereignty” to justify its opacity, reflecting a strategy of building first and negotiating later.
To counter this growing threat, the report urges Bangladesh to recalibrate its foreign policy. It recommends Dhaka demand an immediate halt to dam construction until comprehensive environmental assessments are shared. It also calls for Bangladesh to coordinate with India to present a united front in water diplomacy with China.
Furthermore, the report suggests accelerating economic and security cooperation with India, including fast-tracking a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, boosting connectivity projects, and deepening defense ties. Strengthening ties with India, it argues, would reduce Bangladesh’s dependency on China and offer more strategic and economic alternatives.
Ultimately, the report frames China’s mega dam not just as a technical project, but as a geopolitical challenge that Bangladesh must urgently and strategically address. (AP)
