The project, estimated to cost around USD 137 billion, is located in the ecologically fragile Himalayan region along a tectonic plate boundary where earthquakes occur frequently.

Chinese officials say that hydropower projects in Tibet will not have a major impact on the environment or on downstream water supplies.

Beijing's approval of a controversial mega dam in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Tsangpo River, which flows from Tibet autonomous region into India, has sparked concerns about the environmental impact of the project,

India’s territorial claims over Ladakh have been consistent, and the establishment of new administrative units by China is seen as a further encroachment.

China reiterates plan to build world's biggest dam on Brahmaputra River, ensuring no negative impact on downstream countries.

China has assured India that the construction of a mega dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo river in Tibet will not harm the lower riparian states. The project aims to develop clean energy and has been studied for decades to ensure environmental safety.