China has commenced construction of the Yarlung Zangbo River Lower Reaches Hydropower Project in Tibet, a massive undertaking on the upper Brahmaputra that has raised fresh concerns in India and Bangladesh. The project, expected to cost $167.8 billion and feature five major power stations, involves straightening river bends and diverting water through tunnels—measures Beijing claims will boost regional energy supply. However, downstream nations worry the dam could disrupt water flow and local ecosystems. India has reiterated its demand for transparency and consultation, highlighting the risk to livelihoods and water security in its northeastern states. Bilateral mechanisms such as the Expert Level Mechanism (ELM) continue to facilitate dialogue, with both countries discussing hydrological data sharing and potential impacts. The dam’s construction highlights the intersection of renewable energy ambitions, critical water resources, and ongoing tensions in India-China relations.