RAJYA SABHA
UNSTARRED QUESTION No.2148
TO BE ANSWERED ON 16.12.2021
DIVERSION OF BRAHMAPUTRA BY CHINA
2148. SHRI HARSHVARDHAN SINGH DUNGARPUR:
Will the Minister of External Affairs be pleased to state:
(a) whether it is fact that China has diverted Brahmaputra river forcefully and have started constructing a series of dams on it in their area;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) the action Government proposes to take in this regard?
ANSWER
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
[SHRI V. MURALEEDHARAN]
(a) & (c) Government carefully monitors all developments relating to the Brahmaputra river, including plans by China to develop hydropower projects. As a lower riparian state, with considerable established user rights to the waters of the trans-border rivers, Government has consistently conveyed its views and concerns to the Chinese authorities. Government has urged them to ensure that the interests of downstream states are not harmed by any activities in upstream areas.
Various issues relating to trans-border rivers are discussed with China under the ambit of the institutionalized expert-level mechanism as well as through diplomatic channels. We intend to remain engaged with China on the issue of trans-border rivers to safeguard our interests. Government keeps a constant watch on all developments having a bearing on India’s security and takes all necessary measures to safeguard it.
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