Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Brahmaputra River, known as the Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet and the Jamuna in Bangladesh, is a transboundary river of immense significance to India, China, and Bangladesh. Originating in the Kailash Range in Tibet, it flows through India and Bangladesh before emptying into the Bay of Bengal. While India and Bangladesh have a water-sharing treaty, the relationship between India and China regarding the Brahmaputra is characterized by a lack of formal agreements and growing concerns over China’s upstream activities. Recent reports of China proposing a ‘dam’ on the lower reaches of the river have further heightened anxieties, making the issue of Brahmaputra water sharing a critical aspect of India-China relations.
Historical Context and River Dynamics
The Brahmaputra’s flow is heavily influenced by the monsoon season, with approximately 80% of its water originating from rainfall within the Indian territory. However, the river’s upper reaches lie entirely within Tibet, making China a crucial upstream player. Historically, there have been informal discussions between India and China on transboundary river issues, including the Brahmaputra, but these have not yielded a comprehensive water-sharing treaty. The lack of a formal treaty is a primary source of contention.
Key Issues in Water Sharing
1. Absence of a Formal Treaty
Unlike the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, there is no equivalent agreement governing the Brahmaputra. This absence creates uncertainty and hinders effective cooperation on water management. India has repeatedly sought a treaty with China, but China maintains that the Brahmaputra is not a source of dispute as it is a snow-fed river and there is sufficient water available.
2. Data Sharing and Discrepancies
A major point of contention is the lack of a consistent and reliable data-sharing mechanism. India has requested China to share hydrological data, including daily water flow data, especially during the monsoon season. While China provides some data, India considers it insufficient and often delayed. Discrepancies in data collected by both countries further complicate the situation. India alleges that China often underreports the actual water flow.
3. Chinese Dam Construction Activities
China has been constructing several dams on the Yarlung Tsangpo, raising concerns in India about potential impacts on downstream flows. The most significant project is the Zangmu Hydropower Project, completed in 2015. India fears that these dams could be used to divert or store water, potentially reducing the flow to India during critical periods. China maintains that these projects are run-of-the-river and do not significantly impact downstream flows. However, the cumulative effect of multiple dams remains a concern.
4. Transboundary Impact Assessments
India has repeatedly urged China to conduct comprehensive transboundary impact assessments (TIAs) before undertaking any major infrastructure projects on the Brahmaputra. These assessments would evaluate the potential environmental and hydrological consequences of the projects on downstream countries. China has been reluctant to agree to TIAs, citing its sovereignty and arguing that the projects are within its territory. This lack of transparency fuels mistrust.
5. Proposed ‘Dam’ on Lower Reaches (2023)
In November 2023, China announced plans for a major dam project on the lower reaches of the Yarlung Tsangpo, near the Line of Actual Control (LAC). This proposal, framed as a ‘subsistence and ecological disaster reduction’ project, has sparked significant concern in India. While China claims the project is not aimed at water diversion, India fears it could be used to control water flows and exert strategic leverage. This development has prompted renewed calls for dialogue and a formal treaty.
India’s Concerns and China’s Position
| India’s Concerns | China’s Position |
|---|---|
| Reduced water flow during the dry season. | Projects are run-of-the-river and do not significantly impact downstream flows. |
| Potential for water diversion for use in arid regions of China. | No intention to divert water; projects are for hydropower generation. |
| Lack of transparency and data sharing. | Provides some data; believes the river is not a source of dispute. |
| Absence of a formal treaty for water sharing. | Existing mechanisms for communication and consultation are sufficient. |
Bilateral and Multilateral Efforts
Bilateral discussions between India and China have taken place through the Working Mechanism on Trans-Boundary Rivers. However, progress has been limited. There have also been calls for multilateral cooperation involving Bangladesh to address the issue comprehensively. The Bangladesh-India Joint Rivers Commission (JRC) has been instrumental in managing water resources between the two countries, but its scope does not extend to China.
Conclusion
The Brahmaputra River water sharing issue remains a complex challenge in India-China relations. The absence of a formal treaty, coupled with concerns over China’s upstream activities, necessitates a more proactive and transparent approach. Enhanced data sharing, comprehensive transboundary impact assessments, and a willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue are crucial for building trust and ensuring sustainable water management. A collaborative framework, potentially involving Bangladesh, is essential to address the issue effectively and prevent future disputes. The recent proposal for a dam near the LAC underscores the urgency of finding a mutually acceptable solution.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.