The dam poses significant risks to northeastern India, where the Brahmaputra supports agriculture, fisheries, and millions of livelihoods. A structural failure or emergency water release could cause devastating floods in densely populated downstream areas. Additionally, the project could disrupt transboundary water flows, affecting river ecosystems and farmland. The lack of a water-sharing treaty between China and downstream countries exacerbates these risks, raising concerns about water being used as a strategic tool.