July 15, 2026

Under Operation Sagar Bandhu, Indian Chetak helicopters deployed from INS Vikrant conducted search and rescue missions in Sri Lanka following Cyclone Ditwah. India has reaffirmed its solidarity, delivering 27 tonnes of relief material and standing by Sri Lanka through its Neighbourhood First policy. Image: X@/IndiainSL NEW DELHI: Under Operation Sagar Bandhu, Chetak helicopters deployed from INS Vikrant carried out search and rescue sorties across Sri Lanka on Saturday, assisting communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah. India reaffirmed its solidarity with Sri Lanka during the crisis and continued efforts to save lives and deliver urgent relief.A video released by the High Commission of India in Colombo shows the rescue operations from onboard the aircraft, with personnel lowering ropes, harnesses and inflatable rafts to reach people stranded in floodwaters. Survivors are seen swimming towards the rescue lines before being lifted to safety.Another video from the High Commission shows a Chetak helicopter rescuing a family of four stranded on a rooftop on Saturday. The family was safely airlifted and taken to a secure location as part of Operation Sagar Bandhu.Additionally, the Indian Air Force’s C-130J transport aircraft landed in Colombo at 10 am with relief supplies as India increased its humanitarian response to Cyclone Ditwah. The aircraft is also expected to evacuate stranded Indian citizens as operations continue.Earlier on Sunday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar noted the close coordination between NDRF teams and Sri Lankan authorities as relief efforts continue across the island nation.So far, India has airlifted 27 tonnes of relief material to Colombo. This includes 21 tonnes flown in by a C-130 military transport aircraft and an Ilyushin IL-76 from Hindan Air Base on Friday night, which also carried more than 80 NDRF personnel and 8 tonnes of equipment, as cited by ANI. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his condolences to the people of Sri Lanka who have lost loved ones in the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah. He also expressed hope for the safety, comfort and quick recovery of all affected families.India has also said it is prepared to provide further assistance as the situation develops. Guided by the principles of the Neighbourhood First policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed that India will continue to stand by Sri Lanka in its time of need.According to the latest figures released by Sri Lanka’s Disaster Management Centre on Sunday, 193 people have been confirmed dead and 228 remain missing since Thursday. The DMC reported that 9,68,304 people from 2,66,114 families have been affected by the extreme weather.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘4,000 Soldier Deaths, 20,000 Injured’: Pak FM Ishaq Dar Blames Taliban For Troop LossesAirbus A320 Glitch: Ex-IAF Pilot Shows How ELAC 2 Fails In Real-Time Flight Simulation‘Can’t Make Someone Disappear’: Shashi Tharoor Calls Out Pakistan Over Imran Khan’s Death RumoursPolitics Increasingly ‘Trumps’ Economics: EAM Jaishankar’s Veiled Swipe At US Amid Trade Tensions4 Dead, 1 Injured As Fire Engulfs Four-Storey Building In South DelhiKashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0: 300 Varanasi Students To Visit Tamil Nadu As Centre Expands Tamil Outreach“Our Rashtra Built On Culture, Not Clashes”: RSS Chief’s Big Claim On Nationhood“Oppression Will Trigger Jihad”: Jamiat Chief’s Explosive Claim Stirs StormEAM Jaishankar Decodes Massive US China Power Shift And Global Realignment In Sharp Kolkata AddressImran Khan Isolation Sparks Fury As PTI Claims His Photo Could Transform Pak’s Political Reality123PhotostoriesShah Rukh Khan- Gauri to Dharmendra-Hema Malini: Bollywood power couples who follow different faiths but are happily married7 protein mistakes vegetarians commonly makeWhen actors became filmmakers: Raj Kapoor to Rakesh Roshan and their iconic directorial journeysFrom Madhavan to Kavin: Tamil cinema’s charming chocolate boy iconsChennai’s Corridor 5 Tunnelling Boost: Four TBMs Drive 5.8km Underground Stretch’Madha Gaja Raja’ to ‘Bison’: 2025 Tamil box office hits that turned big profitsYou won’t recognise Ekta Kapoor in this jaw-dropping lehenga7 most bizarre food combinations from IndiaOlympics, Commonwealth, Semiconductors: The Mega Infra Vision for AhmedabadGujarat’s Rs 9.12cr Steel Bridge Project: What’s New After the Collapse123Hot PicksDelhi AQI TodayCyclone DitwahWorld NewsGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingGiannis AntetokounmpoBo BichetteED SheeranMLB Trade RumorsStefon diggsSouth Delhi SuicideBike Driver Account Udaipur EDAyesha CurryFuzzy ZoellerJammie Booker

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins
Under Operation Sagar Bandhu, Indian Chetak helicopters deployed from INS Vikrant conducted search and rescue missions in Sri Lanka following Cyclone Ditwah. India has reaffirmed its solidarity, delivering 27 tonnes of relief material and standing by Sri Lanka through its Neighbourhood First policy. Image: X@/IndiainSL NEW DELHI: Under Operation Sagar Bandhu, Chetak helicopters deployed from INS Vikrant carried out search and rescue sorties across Sri Lanka on Saturday, assisting communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah. India reaffirmed its solidarity with Sri Lanka during the crisis and continued efforts to save lives and deliver urgent relief.A video released by the High Commission of India in Colombo shows the rescue operations from onboard the aircraft, with personnel lowering ropes, harnesses and inflatable rafts to reach people stranded in floodwaters. Survivors are seen swimming towards the rescue lines before being lifted to safety.Another video from the High Commission shows a Chetak helicopter rescuing a family of four stranded on a rooftop on Saturday. The family was safely airlifted and taken to a secure location as part of Operation Sagar Bandhu.Additionally, the Indian Air Force’s C-130J transport aircraft landed in Colombo at 10 am with relief supplies as India increased its humanitarian response to Cyclone Ditwah. The aircraft is also expected to evacuate stranded Indian citizens as operations continue.Earlier on Sunday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar noted the close coordination between NDRF teams and Sri Lankan authorities as relief efforts continue across the island nation.So far, India has airlifted 27 tonnes of relief material to Colombo. This includes 21 tonnes flown in by a C-130 military transport aircraft and an Ilyushin IL-76 from Hindan Air Base on Friday night, which also carried more than 80 NDRF personnel and 8 tonnes of equipment, as cited by ANI. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his condolences to the people of Sri Lanka who have lost loved ones in the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah. He also expressed hope for the safety, comfort and quick recovery of all affected families.India has also said it is prepared to provide further assistance as the situation develops. Guided by the principles of the Neighbourhood First policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed that India will continue to stand by Sri Lanka in its time of need.According to the latest figures released by Sri Lanka’s Disaster Management Centre on Sunday, 193 people have been confirmed dead and 228 remain missing since Thursday. The DMC reported that 9,68,304 people from 2,66,114 families have been affected by the extreme weather.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘4,000 Soldier Deaths, 20,000 Injured’: Pak FM Ishaq Dar Blames Taliban For Troop LossesAirbus A320 Glitch: Ex-IAF Pilot Shows How ELAC 2 Fails In Real-Time Flight Simulation‘Can’t Make Someone Disappear’: Shashi Tharoor Calls Out Pakistan Over Imran Khan’s Death RumoursPolitics Increasingly ‘Trumps’ Economics: EAM Jaishankar’s Veiled Swipe At US Amid Trade Tensions4 Dead, 1 Injured As Fire Engulfs Four-Storey Building In South DelhiKashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0: 300 Varanasi Students To Visit Tamil Nadu As Centre Expands Tamil Outreach“Our Rashtra Built On Culture, Not Clashes”: RSS Chief’s Big Claim On Nationhood“Oppression Will Trigger Jihad”: Jamiat Chief’s Explosive Claim Stirs StormEAM Jaishankar Decodes Massive US China Power Shift And Global Realignment In Sharp Kolkata AddressImran Khan Isolation Sparks Fury As PTI Claims His Photo Could Transform Pak’s Political Reality123PhotostoriesShah Rukh Khan- Gauri to Dharmendra-Hema Malini: Bollywood power couples who follow different faiths but are happily married7 protein mistakes vegetarians commonly makeWhen actors became filmmakers: Raj Kapoor to Rakesh Roshan and their iconic directorial journeysFrom Madhavan to Kavin: Tamil cinema’s charming chocolate boy iconsChennai’s Corridor 5 Tunnelling Boost: Four TBMs Drive 5.8km Underground Stretch’Madha Gaja Raja’ to ‘Bison’: 2025 Tamil box office hits that turned big profitsYou won’t recognise Ekta Kapoor in this jaw-dropping lehenga7 most bizarre food combinations from IndiaOlympics, Commonwealth, Semiconductors: The Mega Infra Vision for AhmedabadGujarat’s Rs 9.12cr Steel Bridge Project: What’s New After the Collapse123Hot PicksDelhi AQI TodayCyclone DitwahWorld NewsGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingGiannis AntetokounmpoBo BichetteED SheeranMLB Trade RumorsStefon diggsSouth Delhi SuicideBike Driver Account Udaipur EDAyesha CurryFuzzy ZoellerJammie Booker


Operation Sagar Bandhu: IAF choppers rescue civilians in flood-hit Sri Lanka; C-130 joins relief operations - Watch

NEW DELHI: Under Operation Sagar Bandhu, Chetak helicopters deployed from INS Vikrant carried out search and rescue sorties across Sri Lanka on Saturday, assisting communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah. India reaffirmed its solidarity with Sri Lanka during the crisis and continued efforts to save lives and deliver urgent relief.A video released by the High Commission of India in Colombo shows the rescue operations from onboard the aircraft, with personnel lowering ropes, harnesses and inflatable rafts to reach people stranded in floodwaters. Survivors are seen swimming towards the rescue lines before being lifted to safety.Another video from the High Commission shows a Chetak helicopter rescuing a family of four stranded on a rooftop on Saturday. The family was safely airlifted and taken to a secure location as part of Operation Sagar Bandhu.Additionally, the Indian Air Force’s C-130J transport aircraft landed in Colombo at 10 am with relief supplies as India increased its humanitarian response to Cyclone Ditwah. The aircraft is also expected to evacuate stranded Indian citizens as operations continue.Earlier on Sunday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar noted the close coordination between NDRF teams and Sri Lankan authorities as relief efforts continue across the island nation.So far, India has airlifted 27 tonnes of relief material to Colombo. This includes 21 tonnes flown in by a C-130 military transport aircraft and an Ilyushin IL-76 from Hindan Air Base on Friday night, which also carried more than 80 NDRF personnel and 8 tonnes of equipment, as cited by ANI. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his condolences to the people of Sri Lanka who have lost loved ones in the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah. He also expressed hope for the safety, comfort and quick recovery of all affected families.India has also said it is prepared to provide further assistance as the situation develops. Guided by the principles of the Neighbourhood First policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed that India will continue to stand by Sri Lanka in its time of need.According to the latest figures released by Sri Lanka’s Disaster Management Centre on Sunday, 193 people have been confirmed dead and 228 remain missing since Thursday. The DMC reported that 9,68,304 people from 2,66,114 families have been affected by the extreme weather.





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Mamata stands firmly behind nephew amid rebellion in TMC NEW DELHI: Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday strongly defended her nephew and party’s national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee, saying he had ‘done no wrong’ and would remain in politics for the next 50 years. Her remarks came as the party continues to face defections and an internal rebellion over his growing influence.Earlier in the day, senior TMC MLA Madan Mitra quit the Mamata Banerjee-led faction and joined the rival camp headed by Ritabrata Banerjee. Mitra had blamed Abhishek Banerjee’s leadership style for his decision and claimed his request for Abhishek to step aside temporarily had been rejected.Addressing party workers through a Facebook live interaction, Mamata dismissed the criticism against Abhishek and accused rebel leaders of unfairly targeting him.”They should learn from Abhishek Banerjee. Had they managed things better, perhaps they too could have obtained relief. Those who are now claiming that Abhishek Banerjee is making excuses should remember that he is holding up a mirror to them. Their criticism is merely an excuse to target him. They know Abhishek has done no wrong. That is precisely why they are afraid that he will remain in politics for the next 50 years,” she said.Backing her nephew, Mamata said Abhishek had faced investigations without compromising.”Abhishek Banerjee has been turned into an excuse. His family members were summoned. Had he wanted, he could have got relief. But he did not run away from the battlefield. The way he has continued to fight, all his flaws have been forgiven. He is fighting like a tiger,” she said.Striking a defiant note, Mamata accused the BJP of using central agencies and police to engineer defections and said she was prepared to rebuild the Trinamool Congress from scratch if necessary. She also alleged that her political opponents wanted her dead.”They wanted me to suffer a heart attack. But I will live till I see your end,” she said.Referring to Madan Mitra’s exit, Mamata linked his decision to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) summons issued to his wife and two sons in connection with the alleged municipal recruitment scam.”We understood that Madan Mitra might switch camps as he and his family had received summons; those who have a ‘setting’ are joining BJP’s ‘washing machine’,” she said.The TMC chief also alleged that central agencies and police were being used to engineer defections from her party.”We still have 18 MPs in Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha; those MPs who have joined ‘setting company’ have done so because they are afraid of police,” she said.She asserted that a few leaders leaving would not weaken the party.”A few leaders leaving party won’t weaken TMC, will continue our fight as people’s love remains our ultimate symbol,” she said.Mamata also apologised to the people for the actions of leaders who had left the party.”We have learnt lessons, want to apologise on behalf of ‘traitors’ who sided with BJP,” she said.The TMC chief vowed to rebuild the organisation if required, saying the party had overcome difficult phases before and would continue its political fight.The latest development come amid the biggest organisational crisis in the TMC since its formation in 1998. Several senior leaders and MLAs have joined the rival faction led by Ritabrata Banerjee, with many blaming Abhishek Banerjee’s growing authority within the party.The rebellion has also spread to Parliament, with several Lok Sabha MPs breaking away from the Mamata Banerjee-led camp. Rival groups are now operating parallel organisational structures, making the leadership battle the central issue within the party.Mamata’s latest remarks are seen as her strongest public endorsement of Abhishek Banerjee since the split, signalling that she remains firmly behind him despite the growing rebellion and continued defections from the party.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosExplained: Why PM Modi’s July 17 Punjab Visit Is Politically Crucial Ahead Of Assembly ElectionsHigh Profile Political Meeting Rekindle Talk Of NCP Unity In Maharashtra; Patil Denies BuzzKGMU Bars Cooking Of Non-Veg Food In Hostels After Governor Flags Issue At ConvocationIndia-UK FTA: What Gets Cheaper, How Exporters Benefit And Why The Deal MattersTMC Rift Deepens As Kalyan Banerjee Launches Fresh Attack On Abhishek And I-PACMP Draft UCC Proposes Jail For Unregistered Live-In Relationships, Mandatory RegistrationMajor Blow To TMC As 20 Rebel MPs Move Closer To Official NCPI Recognition | Watch5 Plots, 4 Flats, Villa: ACB Raid On HMDA Engineer Exposes Rs 9.24 Crore Assets | HyderabadIndia-UK Trade Deal Kicks In From July 15, 99% Of Indian Exports Get Duty-Free AccessSupreme Court Refuses Stay In Bhojshala Case, Allows Alternate Namaz Site Till Final Verdict123Photostories10 baby girl names inspired by Japanese seasons and cherry blossom traditions“Send your child far away…”: Acharya Prashant says this one parenting decision can help children grow into independent adultsHermès, Chanel, and beyond: Inside the designer bag collections of the World Cup’s elite footballers9 signs someone is emotionally safe to date, according to psychologists5 washing machine cleaning tips that can make your clothes smell freshNitin Gadkari swears by this vitamin C-rich soup—Here’s why it’s worth trying in monsoonAmla shots for hair growth: 5 powerful ingredients to blend for maximum benefitsPaneer is packed with protein, but do you know how many calories are hidden in your 10 favourite paneer dishes?Discover your spiritual Goddess based on your birth dateMichelle Obama’s parents never promised her the world would be fair, they promised something better: “Come home we…”123Hot PicksNBA Trade RumorsHow to Watch FIFA World CupMichael JordanKylian MbappeBengaluru ProfessorCarol RuckdeschelRussia Saction BillNBA tradeMinecraft Bedrock 26.40.31 BetaTop TrendingIND U19 vs SL U19Prashant KishorFIFA World Cup 2026Nitin GadkariBengaluru Student SuicideTwisha Sharma Murder CaseBengaluru CapgeminiTaslima NasrinGujarat RapeIran war

Mamata stands firmly behind nephew amid rebellion in TMC NEW DELHI: Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday strongly defended her nephew and party’s national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee, saying he had ‘done no wrong’ and would remain in politics for the next 50 years. Her remarks came as the party continues to face defections and an internal rebellion over his growing influence.Earlier in the day, senior TMC MLA Madan Mitra quit the Mamata Banerjee-led faction and joined the rival camp headed by Ritabrata Banerjee. Mitra had blamed Abhishek Banerjee’s leadership style for his decision and claimed his request for Abhishek to step aside temporarily had been rejected.Addressing party workers through a Facebook live interaction, Mamata dismissed the criticism against Abhishek and accused rebel leaders of unfairly targeting him.”They should learn from Abhishek Banerjee. Had they managed things better, perhaps they too could have obtained relief. Those who are now claiming that Abhishek Banerjee is making excuses should remember that he is holding up a mirror to them. Their criticism is merely an excuse to target him. They know Abhishek has done no wrong. That is precisely why they are afraid that he will remain in politics for the next 50 years,” she said.Backing her nephew, Mamata said Abhishek had faced investigations without compromising.”Abhishek Banerjee has been turned into an excuse. His family members were summoned. Had he wanted, he could have got relief. But he did not run away from the battlefield. The way he has continued to fight, all his flaws have been forgiven. He is fighting like a tiger,” she said.Striking a defiant note, Mamata accused the BJP of using central agencies and police to engineer defections and said she was prepared to rebuild the Trinamool Congress from scratch if necessary. She also alleged that her political opponents wanted her dead.”They wanted me to suffer a heart attack. But I will live till I see your end,” she said.Referring to Madan Mitra’s exit, Mamata linked his decision to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) summons issued to his wife and two sons in connection with the alleged municipal recruitment scam.”We understood that Madan Mitra might switch camps as he and his family had received summons; those who have a ‘setting’ are joining BJP’s ‘washing machine’,” she said.The TMC chief also alleged that central agencies and police were being used to engineer defections from her party.”We still have 18 MPs in Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha; those MPs who have joined ‘setting company’ have done so because they are afraid of police,” she said.She asserted that a few leaders leaving would not weaken the party.”A few leaders leaving party won’t weaken TMC, will continue our fight as people’s love remains our ultimate symbol,” she said.Mamata also apologised to the people for the actions of leaders who had left the party.”We have learnt lessons, want to apologise on behalf of ‘traitors’ who sided with BJP,” she said.The TMC chief vowed to rebuild the organisation if required, saying the party had overcome difficult phases before and would continue its political fight.The latest development come amid the biggest organisational crisis in the TMC since its formation in 1998. Several senior leaders and MLAs have joined the rival faction led by Ritabrata Banerjee, with many blaming Abhishek Banerjee’s growing authority within the party.The rebellion has also spread to Parliament, with several Lok Sabha MPs breaking away from the Mamata Banerjee-led camp. Rival groups are now operating parallel organisational structures, making the leadership battle the central issue within the party.Mamata’s latest remarks are seen as her strongest public endorsement of Abhishek Banerjee since the split, signalling that she remains firmly behind him despite the growing rebellion and continued defections from the party.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosExplained: Why PM Modi’s July 17 Punjab Visit Is Politically Crucial Ahead Of Assembly ElectionsHigh Profile Political Meeting Rekindle Talk Of NCP Unity In Maharashtra; Patil Denies BuzzKGMU Bars Cooking Of Non-Veg Food In Hostels After Governor Flags Issue At ConvocationIndia-UK FTA: What Gets Cheaper, How Exporters Benefit And Why The Deal MattersTMC Rift Deepens As Kalyan Banerjee Launches Fresh Attack On Abhishek And I-PACMP Draft UCC Proposes Jail For Unregistered Live-In Relationships, Mandatory RegistrationMajor Blow To TMC As 20 Rebel MPs Move Closer To Official NCPI Recognition | Watch5 Plots, 4 Flats, Villa: ACB Raid On HMDA Engineer Exposes Rs 9.24 Crore Assets | HyderabadIndia-UK Trade Deal Kicks In From July 15, 99% Of Indian Exports Get Duty-Free AccessSupreme Court Refuses Stay In Bhojshala Case, Allows Alternate Namaz Site Till Final Verdict123Photostories10 baby girl names inspired by Japanese seasons and cherry blossom traditions“Send your child far away…”: Acharya Prashant says this one parenting decision can help children grow into independent adultsHermès, Chanel, and beyond: Inside the designer bag collections of the World Cup’s elite footballers9 signs someone is emotionally safe to date, according to psychologists5 washing machine cleaning tips that can make your clothes smell freshNitin Gadkari swears by this vitamin C-rich soup—Here’s why it’s worth trying in monsoonAmla shots for hair growth: 5 powerful ingredients to blend for maximum benefitsPaneer is packed with protein, but do you know how many calories are hidden in your 10 favourite paneer dishes?Discover your spiritual Goddess based on your birth dateMichelle Obama’s parents never promised her the world would be fair, they promised something better: “Come home we…”123Hot PicksNBA Trade RumorsHow to Watch FIFA World CupMichael JordanKylian MbappeBengaluru ProfessorCarol RuckdeschelRussia Saction BillNBA tradeMinecraft Bedrock 26.40.31 BetaTop TrendingIND U19 vs SL U19Prashant KishorFIFA World Cup 2026Nitin GadkariBengaluru Student SuicideTwisha Sharma Murder CaseBengaluru CapgeminiTaslima NasrinGujarat RapeIran war

Vamsikrishna 0
Tharoor urged Sonam Wangchuk to end his strike NEW DELHI: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Wednesday penned an open letter expressing solidarity with the students protesting at Jantar Mantar over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, while urging climate activist Sonam Wangchuk to end his indefinite hunger strike.He appealed to Wangchuk to end his fast, saying the climate activist had “awakened the conscience of the nation”. “To Shri Sonam Wangchuk-ji, my heartfelt appeal: please end your fast. You have awakened the conscience of the nation; that is what a fast is meant to do. India needs your voice for the long road ahead,” he said, in an open letter.With Parliament in session again from Monday, we will have an opportunity to raise the students’ issues in the highest forum of our democracy. That’s where the problem should be addressed, not by fasting unto death. Please heed my plea. And finally, to the Government: I respectfully urge you to reach out and engage in the dialogue our democracy owes its young citizens. That is not weakness; that is statesmanship,” he added.Further addressing the protesters as “dear young friends”, Tharoor said he was writing “not as a politician or an MP, but as someone deeply troubled by what is happening to your generation of young Indians.”Talking about his own upbringing in a middle-class family, the Congress leader said merit-based examinations had enabled him to pursue higher education and build his career, arguing that a fair examination system remains the only pathway for millions of young Indians from lower, and middle-income households.”When that ladder is broken — papers leaked, examinations cancelled, trust destroyed — the children of the rich and powerful do not suffer. They have other ladders. It is your dreams, and your families’ sacrifices… that are betrayed,” he wrote.Backing the students’ protest, Tharoor said their anger reflected “the anguish of a generation that did everything right and was still betrayed”, adding that peaceful demonstrations had given voice to the concerns of young IndiansTharoor also urged the Centre to engage with the protesters, saying dialogue with young citizens was “not weakness; that is statesmanship.”Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosExplained: Why PM Modi’s July 17 Punjab Visit Is Politically Crucial Ahead Of Assembly ElectionsHigh Profile Political Meeting Rekindle Talk Of NCP Unity In Maharashtra; Patil Denies BuzzKGMU Bars Cooking Of Non-Veg Food In Hostels After Governor Flags Issue At ConvocationIndia-UK FTA: What Gets Cheaper, How Exporters Benefit And Why The Deal MattersTMC Rift Deepens As Kalyan Banerjee Launches Fresh Attack On Abhishek And I-PACMP Draft UCC Proposes Jail For Unregistered Live-In Relationships, Mandatory RegistrationMajor Blow To TMC As 20 Rebel MPs Move Closer To Official NCPI Recognition | Watch5 Plots, 4 Flats, Villa: ACB Raid On HMDA Engineer Exposes Rs 9.24 Crore Assets | HyderabadIndia-UK Trade Deal Kicks In From July 15, 99% Of Indian Exports Get Duty-Free AccessSupreme Court Refuses Stay In Bhojshala Case, Allows Alternate Namaz Site Till Final Verdict123Photostories10 baby girl names inspired by Japanese seasons and cherry blossom traditions“Send your child far away…”: Acharya Prashant says this one parenting decision can help children grow into independent adultsHermès, Chanel, and beyond: Inside the designer bag collections of the World Cup’s elite footballers9 signs someone is emotionally safe to date, according to psychologists5 washing machine cleaning tips that can make your clothes smell freshNitin Gadkari swears by this vitamin C-rich soup—Here’s why it’s worth trying in monsoonAmla shots for hair growth: 5 powerful ingredients to blend for maximum benefitsPaneer is packed with protein, but do you know how many calories are hidden in your 10 favourite paneer dishes?Discover your spiritual Goddess based on your birth dateMichelle Obama’s parents never promised her the world would be fair, they promised something better: “Come home we…”123Hot PicksNBA Trade RumorsHow to Watch FIFA World CupMichael JordanKylian MbappeBengaluru ProfessorCarol RuckdeschelRussia Saction BillNBA tradeMinecraft Bedrock 26.40.31 BetaTop TrendingIND U19 vs SL U19Prashant KishorFIFA World Cup 2026Nitin GadkariBengaluru Student SuicideTwisha Sharma Murder CaseBengaluru CapgeminiTaslima NasrinGujarat RapeIran war

Tharoor urged Sonam Wangchuk to end his strike NEW DELHI: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Wednesday penned an open letter expressing solidarity with the students protesting at Jantar Mantar over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, while urging climate activist Sonam Wangchuk to end his indefinite hunger strike.He appealed to Wangchuk to end his fast, saying the climate activist had “awakened the conscience of the nation”. “To Shri Sonam Wangchuk-ji, my heartfelt appeal: please end your fast. You have awakened the conscience of the nation; that is what a fast is meant to do. India needs your voice for the long road ahead,” he said, in an open letter.With Parliament in session again from Monday, we will have an opportunity to raise the students’ issues in the highest forum of our democracy. That’s where the problem should be addressed, not by fasting unto death. Please heed my plea. And finally, to the Government: I respectfully urge you to reach out and engage in the dialogue our democracy owes its young citizens. That is not weakness; that is statesmanship,” he added.Further addressing the protesters as “dear young friends”, Tharoor said he was writing “not as a politician or an MP, but as someone deeply troubled by what is happening to your generation of young Indians.”Talking about his own upbringing in a middle-class family, the Congress leader said merit-based examinations had enabled him to pursue higher education and build his career, arguing that a fair examination system remains the only pathway for millions of young Indians from lower, and middle-income households.”When that ladder is broken — papers leaked, examinations cancelled, trust destroyed — the children of the rich and powerful do not suffer. They have other ladders. It is your dreams, and your families’ sacrifices… that are betrayed,” he wrote.Backing the students’ protest, Tharoor said their anger reflected “the anguish of a generation that did everything right and was still betrayed”, adding that peaceful demonstrations had given voice to the concerns of young IndiansTharoor also urged the Centre to engage with the protesters, saying dialogue with young citizens was “not weakness; that is statesmanship.”Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosExplained: Why PM Modi’s July 17 Punjab Visit Is Politically Crucial Ahead Of Assembly ElectionsHigh Profile Political Meeting Rekindle Talk Of NCP Unity In Maharashtra; Patil Denies BuzzKGMU Bars Cooking Of Non-Veg Food In Hostels After Governor Flags Issue At ConvocationIndia-UK FTA: What Gets Cheaper, How Exporters Benefit And Why The Deal MattersTMC Rift Deepens As Kalyan Banerjee Launches Fresh Attack On Abhishek And I-PACMP Draft UCC Proposes Jail For Unregistered Live-In Relationships, Mandatory RegistrationMajor Blow To TMC As 20 Rebel MPs Move Closer To Official NCPI Recognition | Watch5 Plots, 4 Flats, Villa: ACB Raid On HMDA Engineer Exposes Rs 9.24 Crore Assets | HyderabadIndia-UK Trade Deal Kicks In From July 15, 99% Of Indian Exports Get Duty-Free AccessSupreme Court Refuses Stay In Bhojshala Case, Allows Alternate Namaz Site Till Final Verdict123Photostories10 baby girl names inspired by Japanese seasons and cherry blossom traditions“Send your child far away…”: Acharya Prashant says this one parenting decision can help children grow into independent adultsHermès, Chanel, and beyond: Inside the designer bag collections of the World Cup’s elite footballers9 signs someone is emotionally safe to date, according to psychologists5 washing machine cleaning tips that can make your clothes smell freshNitin Gadkari swears by this vitamin C-rich soup—Here’s why it’s worth trying in monsoonAmla shots for hair growth: 5 powerful ingredients to blend for maximum benefitsPaneer is packed with protein, but do you know how many calories are hidden in your 10 favourite paneer dishes?Discover your spiritual Goddess based on your birth dateMichelle Obama’s parents never promised her the world would be fair, they promised something better: “Come home we…”123Hot PicksNBA Trade RumorsHow to Watch FIFA World CupMichael JordanKylian MbappeBengaluru ProfessorCarol RuckdeschelRussia Saction BillNBA tradeMinecraft Bedrock 26.40.31 BetaTop TrendingIND U19 vs SL U19Prashant KishorFIFA World Cup 2026Nitin GadkariBengaluru Student SuicideTwisha Sharma Murder CaseBengaluru CapgeminiTaslima NasrinGujarat RapeIran war

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China’s ‘project of the century’ near Arunachal Pradesh fuels concerns over water security, seismic risks and strategic leverage (Image credit: PTI ) NEW DELHI: China’s construction of the world’s largest hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo, known downstream as the Brahmaputra, has renewed concerns in India over water security, seismic safety, ecological impacts and the strategic implications of Beijing’s growing control over infrastructure on a transboundary river.The project, commonly known as the Medog Dam or the Yarlung Tsangpo Hydropower Project, is being built at the river’s dramatic “Great Bend” in Medog County in Tibet, where the river makes a sharp U-turn before entering Arunachal Pradesh as the Siang River. The site lies close to India’s eastern border, with Gelling, Norbuling and Bishing among the nearest Indian locations.According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP), Chinese Premier Li Qiang described the hydropower project as the “project of the century” while inaugurating construction.Where is the dam being built?The dam is coming up on the lower reaches of the Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet’s Medog County, one of the world’s deepest river gorges. Over a stretch of nearly 50 kilometres, the river drops around 2,000 metres, creating one of the world’s richest hydropower resources.Scientists have warned that the project could affect one of the world’s richest mountain ecosystems.According to SCMP, the project will comprise five cascade hydropower stations capable of generating around 300 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity annually, more than three times the annual output of China’s Three Gorges Dam.The project is estimated to cost around 1.2 trillion yuan (about 7 billion), making it the costliest hydropower project ever undertaken, according to the newspaper.Why is the Brahmaputra strategically important?The Brahmaputra is one of Asia’s most important transboundary rivers. Known as the Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet, the Siang (or Dihang) in Arunachal Pradesh and the Jamuna in Bangladesh, it flows through China, India and Bangladesh before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.Stretching roughly 2,900 kilometres, the river drains a basin of around 580,000 square kilometres shared by China, India, Bhutan and Bangladesh. China accounts for the largest share of the basin.The Brahmaputra is the ninth-largest river in the world by discharge and among the world’s largest braided rivers. It is a lifeline for irrigation, agriculture, transportation, fisheries and hydropower across northeastern India and Bangladesh.Can China stop the Brahmaputra from flowing into India?Hydrologists say China cannot permanently stop the Brahmaputra from flowing into India because the river receives substantial additional water from heavy monsoon rainfall and numerous tributaries after entering Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.However, experts say a massive upstream reservoir would enable China to regulate the timing and volume of water releases to a certain extent.According to a Reuters report on India’s hydropower strategy, New Delhi fears an upstream Chinese dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo could reduce dry-season flows by as much as 85% under certain operating scenarios, although there is no publicly available evidence suggesting China intends to do so.Indian officials and strategic analysts fear Beijing could gain greater leverage by controlling key infrastructure upstream.Experts also distinguish between water diversion and flow regulation. China’s project has been described as a hydropower dam rather than a diversion scheme. Run-of-the-river hydropower projects generally release water downstream after generating electricity, although reservoirs can alter seasonal flows and the timing of releases.Why is India concerned?India’s concerns extend beyond water availability.According to SCMP, New Delhi increasingly views the project through the prism of national security because the river flows through Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims as “South Tibet.”Indian officials and strategic analysts fear Beijing could gain greater leverage by controlling key infrastructure upstream.Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu recently described the project as a potential “water bomb”, warning that river flows could “dry up considerably” while the reservoir is being filled and that sudden releases could increase flood risks downstream, according to SCMP.Experts have also pointed to the absence of a comprehensive water-sharing treaty governing the Brahmaputra between India and China.Geological concerns over the mega damBeyond geopolitics, the project’s location has become the focus of growing scientific scrutiny.According to a PTI report citing the South China Morning Post, Chinese geologists have identified an active fault line beneath the hydropower project that could affect its long-term structural stability.The findings were published in the Chinese-language journal Sedimentary Geology and Tethyan Geology under the supervision of the China Geological Survey.The study found that the Paizhen Fault, an active geological fracture in the eastern Himalayas, has remained active since the Pleistocene.According to the researchers, prolonged tectonic activity has weakened surrounding rock formations, making dam foundations, bridges, roads, tunnels and reservoir infrastructure more vulnerable.”The Paizhen area is located within the reservoir area of the Yarlung Tsangpo downstream hydropower station,” the researchers wrote.They warned that earthquakes could trigger landslides and rock collapses that may threaten engineering infrastructure. The study cited the 2017 magnitude 6.9 Milin earthquake as evidence that the region remains seismically active.China’s responseChinese authorities have consistently rejected suggestions that the project poses risks to downstream countries.According to PTI, Beijing has repeatedly maintained that the hydropower project has undergone extensive geological surveys and meets the highest engineering standards.An official Chinese statement issued in December 2024 described it as a safe project that prioritises ecological protection.Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said the project had undergone decades of scientific studies and environmental assessments. According to SCMP, she said China would continue maintaining communication with downstream countries while strengthening cooperation on disaster prevention and mitigation.Chinese officials have also maintained that the project will not adversely affect downstream water flows.Environmental concernsScientists have warned that the project could affect one of the world’s richest mountain ecosystems.According to SCMP, Sichuan-based geologist Fan Xiao described the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon as a rare biodiversity hotspot located in a geologically unstable region.He warned that constructing multiple mega hydropower stations involving high dams, large reservoirs and extensive tunnel systems could increase landslide risks and cause irreversible environmental damage.Fan also questioned official claims that large hydropower projects are entirely “green”, arguing that the long-term geological and ecological costs remain uncertain.Researchers have additionally raised concerns about the displacement of local communities and the possible impact on culturally significant Tibetan sites.China suspended hydrological data sharing in 2017: MEAConcerns over China’s management of transboundary rivers are not new.In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha on February 8, 2018, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that China did not provide hydrological information on either the Brahmaputra (Yarlung Zangbo) or the Sutlej (Langqen Zangbo) during the 2017 flood season despite existing bilateral Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs).Responding to an unstarred question, then Minister of State for External Affairs Gen. (Dr.) V.K. Singh (Retd.) said China had informed India that the interruption was due to “technical reasons.”The MEA said India continued to monitor transboundary rivers for any abnormalities and regularly raised river-related issues through the India-China Expert Level Mechanism (ELM), established in 2006, as well as through diplomatic channels.China resumed Brahmaputra data sharing in 2018China resumed sharing hydrological data on the Siang River, the main stem of the Brahmaputra in India, on May 15, 2018, under the bilateral MoU that requires Beijing to provide river flow information during the flood season from May 15 to October 15, according to officials in India’s then Ministry of Water Resources.The resumption followed concerns in India after China suspended data sharing during the 73-day Doklam standoff in 2017. While many analysts viewed the suspension as linked to deteriorating bilateral ties, Beijing maintained that the interruption was caused by the upgrading of hydrological monitoring stations in Tibet.Data sharing resumed after the 11th meeting of the India-China Expert Level Mechanism on Trans-Border Rivers in Hangzhou in March 2018. Following the meeting, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said China would continue cooperation on hydrological information.The original MoU on sharing hydrological data for the Brahmaputra was signed in 2002 and renewed in 2008 and 2013. India and China also have a separate agreement covering the Sutlej River, originally signed in 2005 and renewed in 2010.Could earthquakes threaten the project?The project sits along the collision zone between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, one of the world’s most seismically active regions.According to the Chinese geological study reported by PTI, the Paizhen Fault has remained active into the Holocene period, with geological evidence suggesting movement as recently as 9,500 years ago.The researchers recommended reinforcing vulnerable slopes and constructing retaining structures to minimise landslide risks.The region has also witnessed glacier collapses and landslides in recent years.According to SCMP, Sayanangshu Modak, a researcher at the University of Arizona, cited the massive 2021 glacier collapse near the Great Bend that temporarily blocked the river and sharply raised water levels, saying such cascading events highlight the vulnerability of large hydropower infrastructure in the region.Could the dam become a geopolitical lever?Several analysts believe the project could reshape the strategic balance between China and India.According to SCMP, Sayanangshu Modak said the project would not only showcase China’s engineering capabilities but also strengthen its strategic influence in the region.He also noted that India has accelerated dam construction downstream as part of its own strategy to strengthen water utilisation rights.Shanghai-based security analyst Ni Lexiong told SCMP that although China considers the project an internal matter, the dam could effectively provide Beijing with additional geopolitical leverage because of its upstream location.”It would effectively create geopolitical leverage vis-a-vis India diplomatically,” he said.However, Liu Zongyi, a senior fellow at the Shanghai Institutes for International Studies, argued that concerns over China’s ability to manipulate river flows were overstated and maintained that the project would not fundamentally alter bilateral relations.India’s responseIndia has responded by accelerating hydropower development in Arunachal Pradesh.According to Reuters, New Delhi has approved investments of more than billion for two major hydroelectric projects along the Brahmaputra.The 1,720 MW Kamala project, estimated at 260.7 billion rupees, will be developed jointly by NHPC and the Arunachal Pradesh government.The 1,200 MW Kalai-II project, costing 141 billion rupees, will be implemented by THDC India Ltd in partnership with the state government.Reuters also reported that India plans to develop more than 76 GW of hydropower capacity in the Brahmaputra basin by 2047 through a transmission investment programme worth billion.These projects are intended to strengthen India’s energy security while reinforcing its strategic presence along the eastern Himalayan frontier.What happens next?Construction of the Medog mega dam is expected to take at least a decade because of the engineering challenges posed by the Himalayan terrain. According to SCMP, the project is expected to begin operations in the 2030s.As construction advances, the project is likely to remain under close scientific and geopolitical scrutiny.For India, the debate extends beyond electricity generation. The central questions are whether China’s control over major upstream infrastructure could alter river management, affect downstream ecology, complicate disaster response, or become another strategic factor in an already complex India-China relationship.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorAyush PandeyAyush Pandey is a journalist at The Times of India, covering breaking news, politics, defence, and major legal and policy developments across India and the world. His reporting focuses on elections, national security, and institutional affairs, tracking the decisions and conflicts that shape public life. He specialises in sharp explainers and in-depth feature stories that go beyond headlines to decode political shifts, defence strategy, geopolitical flashpoints, and changing public sentiment. His work combines speed, clarity, and depth for a fast-moving digital audience.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosExplained: Why PM Modi’s July 17 Punjab Visit Is Politically Crucial Ahead Of Assembly ElectionsHigh Profile Political Meeting Rekindle Talk Of NCP Unity In Maharashtra; Patil Denies BuzzKGMU Bars Cooking Of Non-Veg Food In Hostels After Governor Flags Issue At ConvocationIndia-UK FTA: What Gets Cheaper, How Exporters Benefit And Why The Deal MattersTMC Rift Deepens As Kalyan Banerjee Launches Fresh Attack On Abhishek And I-PACMP Draft UCC Proposes Jail For Unregistered Live-In Relationships, Mandatory RegistrationMajor Blow To TMC As 20 Rebel MPs Move Closer To Official NCPI Recognition | Watch5 Plots, 4 Flats, Villa: ACB Raid On HMDA Engineer Exposes Rs 9.24 Crore Assets | HyderabadIndia-UK Trade Deal Kicks In From July 15, 99% Of Indian Exports Get Duty-Free AccessSupreme Court Refuses Stay In Bhojshala Case, Allows Alternate Namaz Site Till Final Verdict123Photostories“Send your child far away…”: Acharya Prashant says this one parenting decision can help children grow into independent adultsHermès, Chanel, and beyond: Inside the designer bag collections of the World Cup’s elite footballers9 signs someone is emotionally safe to date, according to psychologists5 washing machine cleaning tips that can make your clothes smell freshNitin Gadkari swears by this vitamin C-rich soup—Here’s why it’s worth trying in monsoonAmla shots for hair growth: 5 powerful ingredients to blend for maximum benefitsPaneer is packed with protein, but do you know how many calories are hidden in your 10 favourite paneer dishes?Discover your spiritual Goddess based on your birth dateMichelle Obama’s parents never promised her the world would be fair, they promised something better: “Come home we…”5 shocking theft stories in India that left people stunned and questioning the society123Hot PicksOil Price TodayTop Stock RecommendationsMichael JordanKylian MbappeBengaluru ProfessorCarol RuckdeschelRussia Saction BillGold Rate TodayMinecraft Bedrock 26.40.31 BetaTop TrendingIND U19 vs SL U19Tamil Nadu MurderFIFA World Cup 2026Nitin GadkariBengaluru Student SuicideTwisha Sharma Murder CaseBengaluru CapgeminiTaslima NasrinGujarat RapeIran war

China’s ‘project of the century’ near Arunachal Pradesh fuels concerns over water security, seismic risks and strategic leverage (Image credit: PTI ) NEW DELHI: China’s construction of the world’s largest hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo, known downstream as the Brahmaputra, has renewed concerns in India over water security, seismic safety, ecological impacts and the strategic implications of Beijing’s growing control over infrastructure on a transboundary river.The project, commonly known as the Medog Dam or the Yarlung Tsangpo Hydropower Project, is being built at the river’s dramatic “Great Bend” in Medog County in Tibet, where the river makes a sharp U-turn before entering Arunachal Pradesh as the Siang River. The site lies close to India’s eastern border, with Gelling, Norbuling and Bishing among the nearest Indian locations.According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP), Chinese Premier Li Qiang described the hydropower project as the “project of the century” while inaugurating construction.Where is the dam being built?The dam is coming up on the lower reaches of the Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet’s Medog County, one of the world’s deepest river gorges. Over a stretch of nearly 50 kilometres, the river drops around 2,000 metres, creating one of the world’s richest hydropower resources.Scientists have warned that the project could affect one of the world’s richest mountain ecosystems.According to SCMP, the project will comprise five cascade hydropower stations capable of generating around 300 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity annually, more than three times the annual output of China’s Three Gorges Dam.The project is estimated to cost around 1.2 trillion yuan (about $167 billion), making it the costliest hydropower project ever undertaken, according to the newspaper.Why is the Brahmaputra strategically important?The Brahmaputra is one of Asia’s most important transboundary rivers. Known as the Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet, the Siang (or Dihang) in Arunachal Pradesh and the Jamuna in Bangladesh, it flows through China, India and Bangladesh before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.Stretching roughly 2,900 kilometres, the river drains a basin of around 580,000 square kilometres shared by China, India, Bhutan and Bangladesh. China accounts for the largest share of the basin.The Brahmaputra is the ninth-largest river in the world by discharge and among the world’s largest braided rivers. It is a lifeline for irrigation, agriculture, transportation, fisheries and hydropower across northeastern India and Bangladesh.Can China stop the Brahmaputra from flowing into India?Hydrologists say China cannot permanently stop the Brahmaputra from flowing into India because the river receives substantial additional water from heavy monsoon rainfall and numerous tributaries after entering Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.However, experts say a massive upstream reservoir would enable China to regulate the timing and volume of water releases to a certain extent.According to a Reuters report on India’s hydropower strategy, New Delhi fears an upstream Chinese dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo could reduce dry-season flows by as much as 85% under certain operating scenarios, although there is no publicly available evidence suggesting China intends to do so.Indian officials and strategic analysts fear Beijing could gain greater leverage by controlling key infrastructure upstream.Experts also distinguish between water diversion and flow regulation. China’s project has been described as a hydropower dam rather than a diversion scheme. Run-of-the-river hydropower projects generally release water downstream after generating electricity, although reservoirs can alter seasonal flows and the timing of releases.Why is India concerned?India’s concerns extend beyond water availability.According to SCMP, New Delhi increasingly views the project through the prism of national security because the river flows through Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims as “South Tibet.”Indian officials and strategic analysts fear Beijing could gain greater leverage by controlling key infrastructure upstream.Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu recently described the project as a potential “water bomb”, warning that river flows could “dry up considerably” while the reservoir is being filled and that sudden releases could increase flood risks downstream, according to SCMP.Experts have also pointed to the absence of a comprehensive water-sharing treaty governing the Brahmaputra between India and China.Geological concerns over the mega damBeyond geopolitics, the project’s location has become the focus of growing scientific scrutiny.According to a PTI report citing the South China Morning Post, Chinese geologists have identified an active fault line beneath the hydropower project that could affect its long-term structural stability.The findings were published in the Chinese-language journal Sedimentary Geology and Tethyan Geology under the supervision of the China Geological Survey.The study found that the Paizhen Fault, an active geological fracture in the eastern Himalayas, has remained active since the Pleistocene.According to the researchers, prolonged tectonic activity has weakened surrounding rock formations, making dam foundations, bridges, roads, tunnels and reservoir infrastructure more vulnerable.”The Paizhen area is located within the reservoir area of the Yarlung Tsangpo downstream hydropower station,” the researchers wrote.They warned that earthquakes could trigger landslides and rock collapses that may threaten engineering infrastructure. The study cited the 2017 magnitude 6.9 Milin earthquake as evidence that the region remains seismically active.China’s responseChinese authorities have consistently rejected suggestions that the project poses risks to downstream countries.According to PTI, Beijing has repeatedly maintained that the hydropower project has undergone extensive geological surveys and meets the highest engineering standards.An official Chinese statement issued in December 2024 described it as a safe project that prioritises ecological protection.Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said the project had undergone decades of scientific studies and environmental assessments. According to SCMP, she said China would continue maintaining communication with downstream countries while strengthening cooperation on disaster prevention and mitigation.Chinese officials have also maintained that the project will not adversely affect downstream water flows.Environmental concernsScientists have warned that the project could affect one of the world’s richest mountain ecosystems.According to SCMP, Sichuan-based geologist Fan Xiao described the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon as a rare biodiversity hotspot located in a geologically unstable region.He warned that constructing multiple mega hydropower stations involving high dams, large reservoirs and extensive tunnel systems could increase landslide risks and cause irreversible environmental damage.Fan also questioned official claims that large hydropower projects are entirely “green”, arguing that the long-term geological and ecological costs remain uncertain.Researchers have additionally raised concerns about the displacement of local communities and the possible impact on culturally significant Tibetan sites.China suspended hydrological data sharing in 2017: MEAConcerns over China’s management of transboundary rivers are not new.In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha on February 8, 2018, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that China did not provide hydrological information on either the Brahmaputra (Yarlung Zangbo) or the Sutlej (Langqen Zangbo) during the 2017 flood season despite existing bilateral Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs).Responding to an unstarred question, then Minister of State for External Affairs Gen. (Dr.) V.K. Singh (Retd.) said China had informed India that the interruption was due to “technical reasons.”The MEA said India continued to monitor transboundary rivers for any abnormalities and regularly raised river-related issues through the India-China Expert Level Mechanism (ELM), established in 2006, as well as through diplomatic channels.China resumed Brahmaputra data sharing in 2018China resumed sharing hydrological data on the Siang River, the main stem of the Brahmaputra in India, on May 15, 2018, under the bilateral MoU that requires Beijing to provide river flow information during the flood season from May 15 to October 15, according to officials in India’s then Ministry of Water Resources.The resumption followed concerns in India after China suspended data sharing during the 73-day Doklam standoff in 2017. While many analysts viewed the suspension as linked to deteriorating bilateral ties, Beijing maintained that the interruption was caused by the upgrading of hydrological monitoring stations in Tibet.Data sharing resumed after the 11th meeting of the India-China Expert Level Mechanism on Trans-Border Rivers in Hangzhou in March 2018. Following the meeting, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said China would continue cooperation on hydrological information.The original MoU on sharing hydrological data for the Brahmaputra was signed in 2002 and renewed in 2008 and 2013. India and China also have a separate agreement covering the Sutlej River, originally signed in 2005 and renewed in 2010.Could earthquakes threaten the project?The project sits along the collision zone between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, one of the world’s most seismically active regions.According to the Chinese geological study reported by PTI, the Paizhen Fault has remained active into the Holocene period, with geological evidence suggesting movement as recently as 9,500 years ago.The researchers recommended reinforcing vulnerable slopes and constructing retaining structures to minimise landslide risks.The region has also witnessed glacier collapses and landslides in recent years.According to SCMP, Sayanangshu Modak, a researcher at the University of Arizona, cited the massive 2021 glacier collapse near the Great Bend that temporarily blocked the river and sharply raised water levels, saying such cascading events highlight the vulnerability of large hydropower infrastructure in the region.Could the dam become a geopolitical lever?Several analysts believe the project could reshape the strategic balance between China and India.According to SCMP, Sayanangshu Modak said the project would not only showcase China’s engineering capabilities but also strengthen its strategic influence in the region.He also noted that India has accelerated dam construction downstream as part of its own strategy to strengthen water utilisation rights.Shanghai-based security analyst Ni Lexiong told SCMP that although China considers the project an internal matter, the dam could effectively provide Beijing with additional geopolitical leverage because of its upstream location.”It would effectively create geopolitical leverage vis-a-vis India diplomatically,” he said.However, Liu Zongyi, a senior fellow at the Shanghai Institutes for International Studies, argued that concerns over China’s ability to manipulate river flows were overstated and maintained that the project would not fundamentally alter bilateral relations.India’s responseIndia has responded by accelerating hydropower development in Arunachal Pradesh.According to Reuters, New Delhi has approved investments of more than $4 billion for two major hydroelectric projects along the Brahmaputra.The 1,720 MW Kamala project, estimated at 260.7 billion rupees, will be developed jointly by NHPC and the Arunachal Pradesh government.The 1,200 MW Kalai-II project, costing 141 billion rupees, will be implemented by THDC India Ltd in partnership with the state government.Reuters also reported that India plans to develop more than 76 GW of hydropower capacity in the Brahmaputra basin by 2047 through a transmission investment programme worth $77 billion.These projects are intended to strengthen India’s energy security while reinforcing its strategic presence along the eastern Himalayan frontier.What happens next?Construction of the Medog mega dam is expected to take at least a decade because of the engineering challenges posed by the Himalayan terrain. According to SCMP, the project is expected to begin operations in the 2030s.As construction advances, the project is likely to remain under close scientific and geopolitical scrutiny.For India, the debate extends beyond electricity generation. The central questions are whether China’s control over major upstream infrastructure could alter river management, affect downstream ecology, complicate disaster response, or become another strategic factor in an already complex India-China relationship.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorAyush PandeyAyush Pandey is a journalist at The Times of India, covering breaking news, politics, defence, and major legal and policy developments across India and the world. His reporting focuses on elections, national security, and institutional affairs, tracking the decisions and conflicts that shape public life. He specialises in sharp explainers and in-depth feature stories that go beyond headlines to decode political shifts, defence strategy, geopolitical flashpoints, and changing public sentiment. His work combines speed, clarity, and depth for a fast-moving digital audience.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosExplained: Why PM Modi’s July 17 Punjab Visit Is Politically Crucial Ahead Of Assembly ElectionsHigh Profile Political Meeting Rekindle Talk Of NCP Unity In Maharashtra; Patil Denies BuzzKGMU Bars Cooking Of Non-Veg Food In Hostels After Governor Flags Issue At ConvocationIndia-UK FTA: What Gets Cheaper, How Exporters Benefit And Why The Deal MattersTMC Rift Deepens As Kalyan Banerjee Launches Fresh Attack On Abhishek And I-PACMP Draft UCC Proposes Jail For Unregistered Live-In Relationships, Mandatory RegistrationMajor Blow To TMC As 20 Rebel MPs Move Closer To Official NCPI Recognition | Watch5 Plots, 4 Flats, Villa: ACB Raid On HMDA Engineer Exposes Rs 9.24 Crore Assets | HyderabadIndia-UK Trade Deal Kicks In From July 15, 99% Of Indian Exports Get Duty-Free AccessSupreme Court Refuses Stay In Bhojshala Case, Allows Alternate Namaz Site Till Final Verdict123Photostories“Send your child far away…”: Acharya Prashant says this one parenting decision can help children grow into independent adultsHermès, Chanel, and beyond: Inside the designer bag collections of the World Cup’s elite footballers9 signs someone is emotionally safe to date, according to psychologists5 washing machine cleaning tips that can make your clothes smell freshNitin Gadkari swears by this vitamin C-rich soup—Here’s why it’s worth trying in monsoonAmla shots for hair growth: 5 powerful ingredients to blend for maximum benefitsPaneer is packed with protein, but do you know how many calories are hidden in your 10 favourite paneer dishes?Discover your spiritual Goddess based on your birth dateMichelle Obama’s parents never promised her the world would be fair, they promised something better: “Come home we…”5 shocking theft stories in India that left people stunned and questioning the society123Hot PicksOil Price TodayTop Stock RecommendationsMichael JordanKylian MbappeBengaluru ProfessorCarol RuckdeschelRussia Saction BillGold Rate TodayMinecraft Bedrock 26.40.31 BetaTop TrendingIND U19 vs SL U19Tamil Nadu MurderFIFA World Cup 2026Nitin GadkariBengaluru Student SuicideTwisha Sharma Murder CaseBengaluru CapgeminiTaslima NasrinGujarat RapeIran war

Vamsikrishna 0