The dam’s 32 turbines produce a massive 22,500 megawatts of electricity, significantly reducing China's reliance on coal and cutting greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, it has alleviated devastating floods that once plagued the region, protecting millions of lives and farmland.
However, the dam has faced criticism due to its environmental and social impacts. It displaced over 1.3 million people and submerged historical sites, wildlife habitats, and fertile lands. Concerns over sediment buildup, water pollution, and seismic activity have also been raised.
Despite the controversies, the Three Gorges Dam symbolizes China's engineering prowess and highlights the balance between development and sustainability. It serves as a vital lifeline for energy and flood control but remains a reminder of the complex trade-offs in large-scale infrastructure projects.