The Importance of Tibet’s Rivers

Tibetan rivers are known for their purity and minerals. They are known as the Water Tower of Asia, hold the third largest store of water-ice in the world and are the source of many of Asia’s rivers.

They flow into some of the densely populated countries in Asia: India, China, Bangladesh, Burma, Nepal, Bhutan and many other Southeast Asian countries. The source of the water is mostly underground waters and glaciers. Apart from the geographical importance, Tibetan water bodies are known for one more thing: timeless beauty. The colors that get reflected in the water are like no other since Tibet is literally top of the world. The reflective hues from the sky and sun are a sight to behold. Tibetan rivers are not just a pretty sight; they have a lot of potential for hydroelectric power. The freshwater rivers are one of the most important natural resources for the Tibetans and downstream nations.

For China’s government, Tibet’s water is another resource to be exploited, for hydro-electric power, diversion to supply people elsewhere in China, bottling as a consumer product, and even as a source of strategic influence over countries downstream who rely on water from Tibet’s rivers.

Tibet is not only suffering as there are an estimated 1.3 billion Asian people depending on the rivers originating from Tibet. However, the unending series of hydropower projects, damming and mining activities by Chinese authorities diverts and pollutes those precious rivers in Tibet resulting in harms and destruction to Tibet’s fragile eco system and its downstream Asian nations who are depending on Tibet’s rivers.

That is why, it is up to us younger generations of Tibetans to raise awareness towards Tibet’s degrading environment and speak against the exploitation of Chinese Government.

If Tibet Dies, Asia Dies