China’s ambitious hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo River, known as the Brahmaputra River in India, has come under fresh scrutiny after a group of Chinese geologists raised concerns about the safety of the proposed construction site. According to a recent study, the area selected for the massive dam project is located near an active fault line, increasing the risk of earthquakes, landslides and other geological hazards.
The project is one of China’s largest planned hydropower developments and is expected to play a major role in the country’s renewable energy strategy. However, the new findings have sparked concerns not only among scientists but also among policymakers, as questions are being raised about the long-term safety and stability of such a large infrastructure project.
The study, conducted by experts from several Chinese research institutions, suggests that the geological conditions around the proposed site may create significant challenges during both the construction and operational phases of the dam.
Researchers found that the active fault line in the region has already caused fractures in nearby rock formations. These fractures could weaken the strength of the surrounding landscape and make the area more vulnerable to damage during earthquakes or other natural events.
The findings have attracted attention because the success and safety of a large dam depend heavily on the stability of the ground on which it is built. Any major geological disturbance could affect the structure of the dam and pose risks to nearby communities, workers and infrastructure.
The research was carried out by a team of geologists from Chengdu University of Technology, the Civil-Military Integration Centre of the China Geological Survey and the Middle Yarlung Zangbo River Natural Resources Observation and Research Station.
According to the study, the proposed dam site is located near the Paizhen Fault, a fault line that has remained highly active since the Pleistocene period, commonly known as the Ice Age.
The researchers explained that this fault line could have a major impact on the stability of nearby structures. Not only dams, but also roads, tunnels, bridges and other infrastructure projects in the region could be affected by geological activity.
The study noted that the Paizhen area has loose geological formations and weak natural cohesion. Because of these conditions, the slopes around the planned reservoir may become unstable during earthquakes or periods of intense geological movement.
Scientists warned that seismic activity could trigger landslides, rockfalls and slope collapses. Such incidents could damage infrastructure, delay construction work and endanger the lives of workers and local residents.
The report referred to previous earthquakes in Tibet, including a strong earthquake recorded in the Milin region, as evidence of the area's seismic vulnerability. Researchers believe similar events in the future could create serious challenges for the hydropower project.
To reduce risks, the team recommended strengthening slope stability measures before and during construction. Suggested safety measures include reinforcing vulnerable slopes, building retaining barriers and improving geological monitoring systems around the project area.
According to the researchers, these precautions will be necessary to minimise the possibility of landslides and structural damage once construction begins.
Despite the concerns, the study does not suggest abandoning the project. Instead, it calls for careful planning and stronger engineering safeguards to ensure the dam can withstand the natural challenges present in the region.
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The dam project has also drawn attention in India because the Brahmaputra is a major transboundary river that flows from Tibet into India and later into Bangladesh. Any major development on the river's upper reaches is closely watched by downstream countries.
India has repeatedly expressed concerns about activities on rivers that originate in neighbouring countries and flow into Indian territory. The Brahmaputra is particularly important because it supports agriculture, livelihoods, transportation and ecosystems across large parts of northeastern India.
The Indian government has stated that it is closely monitoring developments related to the Chinese hydropower project. Officials have said that India is taking all necessary steps to protect the interests of people living in downstream regions.
The government has also emphasised the importance of ensuring that projects in upstream areas do not negatively affect water flow, ecological balance or the safety of communities located further downstream.
In previous statements made in Parliament, the government noted that it remains engaged with Chinese authorities on issues related to transboundary rivers. India has consistently highlighted the rights and concerns of downstream nations and has urged China to consider these interests while planning major projects.
The issue has also been discussed during bilateral meetings between the two countries. In recent years, India and China have agreed to continue dialogue through expert-level mechanisms that focus on hydrological data sharing and cooperation on river-related matters.
Access to hydrological information is considered important for flood forecasting, disaster management and water resource planning in downstream regions. Therefore, maintaining communication between the two countries remains a key aspect of river management.
While China views the hydropower project as an important source of clean energy and economic development, the latest geological findings have highlighted the challenges associated with building large infrastructure projects in environmentally sensitive and earthquake-prone areas.
The research has raised important questions about how engineering, environmental protection and public safety can be balanced in such ambitious projects. Experts believe that careful planning and strong safety measures will be essential if the project is to move forward successfully.
As discussions continue, both China and neighbouring countries will be watching closely to see how the project develops and whether the identified geological risks can be effectively managed. The future of the dam may depend not only on its engineering design but also on how well it can withstand the powerful natural forces present in one of the world's most challenging terrains.
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