China's Medog Mega Dam Faces Fault Line Risks Near Indian Border

A Chinese geological study has identified the active Paizhen Fault running directly beneath the Medog (Yarlung Tsangpo) mega‑dam site in Tibet. The fault, active since the Pleistocene and linked to the 6.9‑magnitude 2017 Milin earthquake, could undermine the structural stability of what is slated to become the world’s largest hydroelectric project – a 60,000 MW dam expected to generate about 300 billion kWh annually and costing over ¥1 trillion (≈US$168 bn). Construction began in 2025 near the Indian border (Arunachal Pradesh) and is slated for completion in 2033.

Researchers warned that the fault’s movement has fractured surrounding rock, creating weak foundations and raising the risk of landslides, slope failures, and dam collapse, especially during earthquakes or prolonged water immersion. They urged stronger engineering measures such as slope reinforcement and retaining barriers. The project has already drawn concerns from India and Bangladesh over possible reductions in downstream Brahmaputra/Jamuna flows, adding geopolitical tension to the technical challenges.

Chinese officials maintain that extensive geological assessments have been undertaken and that the dam will adhere to safety and environmental standards, but the new findings keep safety and cross‑border water‑resource issues under close scrutiny.