China is on the verge of breaking its own record by constructing a colossal dam on the eastern Tibetan plateau, which experts warn could spell disaster for Bangladesh. This new dam, touted as the world’s largest, poses a severe threat to the topography of the Jamuna River basin in Bangladesh, with catastrophic consequences during both rainy and dry seasons.

During the monsoon, the dam's water release could inundate vast areas of the Jamuna basin, while the river could dry up in drier months if water is withheld. Such drastic changes threaten to alter the course of rivers across Bangladesh, further destabilizing the region. This potential devastation echoes the aftermath of the 1787 earthquake, which drastically changed the course of the Brahmaputra River.

The dam is being constructed on the Yarlung Tsangpo River, originating from the Jima Yongjong Glacier on the Tibetan Plateau. This river flows into India as the Siang in Arunachal Pradesh, becomes the Brahmaputra in Assam, and finally enters Bangladesh. The Jamuna River is a primary tributary of the Brahmaputra. Controlling the water flow at its source could wreak havoc on the Jamuna basin.

China claims the $137 billion project will generate 300 billion kilowatt-hours of hydroelectricity annually, aligning with its carbon neutrality goals. However, critics argue this comes at the expense of neighboring ecosystems and populations. The dam's construction could displace millions and severely disrupt the natural flow of the river, leading to far-reaching ecological and seismic consequences.

Historically, China's massive Three Gorges Dam displaced 1.4 million people. This new project, costing nearly three times as much, could lead to even greater displacement and environmental damage. Geologists have also raised alarms, citing increased earthquake risks in the seismically active region. NASA had previously reported that the Three Gorges Dam's immense water pressure slightly altered the Earth's shape and rotational speed—a concern that may be magnified with this new dam.

Bangladesh’s Silence Amid Growing Risks
Despite being the most vulnerable to these changes, Bangladesh’s leadership has remained conspicuously silent. Experts suggest that economic dependencies and political ties with China have stifled any opposition. By contrast, India has begun lobbying globally to counter China's plans, aware of the potential downstream impacts.

The silence from influential figures in Bangladesh has sparked criticism. Many believe that some leaders, motivated by personal gains and Chinese financial influence, are ignoring the imminent dangers posed by the dam. This has left Bangladesh exposed to severe flooding during monsoons and water shortages during dry spells, jeopardizing the livelihoods of millions in the Jamuna basin.

Global Concerns
International protests are mounting, with concerns that China’s dam will exacerbate regional tensions and environmental degradation. Critics argue that China’s approach reflects its broader geopolitical strategy of prioritizing its own development at the expense of its neighbors.

As China continues with its ambitious plans, the fate of the Brahmaputra and its dependent ecosystems hangs in the balance. Without urgent intervention, Bangladesh faces a future marked by environmental catastrophe and humanitarian crises, with the Jamuna basin bearing the brunt of the destruction.