Tibet Earthquake Reveals Dam Structural Issues

Chinese authorities have confirmed structural problems, including cracks, in five out of 14 hydropower dams in Tibet following a magnitude 6.8 earthquake on January 7, which resulted in at least 126 deaths and significant damage to infrastructure. As a precaution, three of the affected dams have been completely drained, with monitoring devices installed at another dam undergoing similar measures. The earthquake has raised concerns regarding the risks associated with China's extensive hydropower projects in this seismically active region, which has experienced similar disasters in the past. Local officials have evacuated approximately 1,500 residents from vulnerable areas near the damaged dams. This incident highlights the precarious nature of hydropower development in regions prone to earthquakes, with experts warning of potential catastrophic consequences if the dams fail. The situation has also drawn attention to China's plans for further dam construction on the Yarlung Zangbo River, raising alarm among neighboring countries about potential environmental impacts.