Bangladesh Presses India Over Ganges Water Treaty
Bangladesh urges India to renew Ganges water treaty before December expiry.
In brief
Bangladesh urges India to renew Ganges water treaty before December expiry. Bangladesh warns of water shortages if India fails to renew 1996 Ganges water treaty by December. Originally reported by Dawn.
Water Treaty Expiry
Bangladesh fears water shortages as 30-year Ganges water-sharing treaty with India expires December 12.
Shrinking River Flows
In Bangladesh’s parched Barind region, 72-year-old Bikash Soren recalls river flowing year-round from India.
Suicide Deaths
Two farmers died by suicide last season after dwindling water levels ruined rice and wheat crops.
Fish Catches Decline
Fish catches in the Ganges have slashed as river flows shrink, forcing farmers to switch to pond farming.
Ganges Basin Impact
The 2,525-kilometre Ganges flows through 655 million people’s home, including 50 million in Bangladesh.
1996 Treaty Details
The 1996 treaty expires December 12 and governs dry-season water sharing at India’s Farakka Barrage.
Bangladesh’s Demand
Bangladesh needs new treaty based on mutual benefit and respect, says prime ministerial water adviser.
Historical Tensions
Water arguments over 54 cross-border rivers stretch back decades, with Ganges among most important.
India’s Position
India says river-related discussions are for Joint Rivers Commission, last talks in May.
Soured Relations
Bangladesh and India relations soured after Sheikh Hasina fled to India following 2024 uprising.
Hasina’s Vow
Hasina, sentenced to death in absentia for crimes against humanity, vows to return from India in December.
Prime Minister’s Visit
Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Tarique Rahman may visit India before treaty expires, but no visit confirmed.
Historical Dispute
Water arguments date back to 1975 when India opened Farakka Barrage, diverting most water to Bangladesh.
UN Intervention
United Nations intervened in dispute and agreed deal in 1977 after water-sharing lapsed a decade later.
Environmental Impact
Gorai river dried up, affecting Sundarbans, world’s largest mangrove forest and World Heritage site.
Ganges-Kobadak Project
Bangladesh’s Ganges-Kobadak Irrigation Project, designed for 955 square kilometres, became inoperative due to water scarcity.
Padma Barrage
Dhaka approved $2.8-billion Padma Barrage project with 113-megawatt hydropower plant in May.
What to remember
Bangladesh warns of water shortages if India fails to renew 1996 Ganges water treaty by December.
