The Indian government has stated that it is carefully observing developments related to China's planned hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo river, known as the upper reaches of the Brahmaputra.
Measures are being implemented to safeguard India's downstream interests, and concerns have been raised with Beijing regarding the project's potential impact on water flow and ecological stability.
Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh informed the Rajya Sabha on Thursday that India remains engaged with China on trans-border river issues. He emphasised that "preventive and corrective measures" are being undertaken to ensure the protection of life and livelihoods in downstream regions.
Responding to a parliamentary query on whether China had approved the construction of a mega dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo, Singh confirmed that India had taken note of the development.
He reiterated that India is "carefully monitoring all developments" concerning the Brahmaputra and is committed to protecting its interests.
India has been addressing issues related to trans-border rivers through an Expert Level Mechanism established in 2006, as well as diplomatic channels. Singh stated that, as a lower riparian state with "considerable established user rights," India has repeatedly conveyed its concerns to China.
The government has urged Beijing to ensure that any upstream activities do not adversely affect downstream regions.
Following China's announcement of the dam project, India officially conveyed its concerns on 30 December 2024, stressing the need for transparency and consultation with downstream nations.
The matter was also raised during Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra’s visit to Beijing for discussions with Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong on 26-27 January 2025.
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