Key facts about Brahmaputra River

News: China has approved the construction of world’s largest dam, costing US$ 137 billion, on the Brahmaputra River in Tibet close to the Indian border. 

About Brahmaputra River 

• It is a transboundary river in India, originating from the Chemayungdung glacier of the Kailash range near the Mansarovar lake. 
• Course 
  • From its source, it travels eastwards longitudinally for nearly 1200 kms in southern Tibet, where it is known as the Tsangpo. 
  • The river enters India west of Sadiya town in Arunachal Pradesh. It receives its main left bank tributaries (Dibang and Lohit) to be known as Brahmaputra. 
  • In Bangladesh it merges with the Ganga to form the Sunderbans delta. 
• Tributaries 
  • Major Left Bank Tributaries: Burhi Dihing, Dhansari, Lohit, Dibang, Kopili 
  • Major Right Bank Tributaries: Subansiri, Kameng, Manas, Sankosh 
• Significance of Brahmaputra River 
  • Economic Importance: The fertile plains formed by the river support the cultivation of rice, tea, jute, contributing to the economy of Assam and surrounding areas. The river also facilitates trade and inland water transportation. 
  • Ecological Importance: It supports rich biodiversity of flora and fauna, such as the Gangetic dolphin, Indian rhinoceros and various migratory birds.  
  • Hydropower Potential: It holds significant potential for hydroelectric power generation, given its massive flow of water.