Ganges water dispute

River Ganges and tributaries

Ganges Water Dispute

The Ganges Water Dispute is a long-standing international conflict between Bangladesh and India over the distribution of the waters of the Ganges River, which is known as the Padma River in Bangladesh. The dispute primarily arises from the construction and operation of the Farakka Barrage by India, which is located just 16.5 kilometers upstream of the border with Bangladesh. The barrage, which was completed in 1975, has the capability to divert a significant portion of the Ganges water during the dry season, thereby affecting the flow of water into Bangladesh.

Background

The Ganges River, originating in the Himalayas, is one of the largest rivers in the world and serves as a crucial source of water for both India and Bangladesh. The river supports the livelihoods of millions of people in both countries, who rely on it for agriculture, fishing, and domestic use. The distribution of its waters is therefore of critical importance to the economies and well-being of the populations in the basin.

The Dispute

The core of the Ganges water dispute lies in the allocation of water resources between the two countries. Bangladesh, being a downstream country, is naturally affected by any diversion of water upstream. The Farakka Barrage was originally built by India with the intention of diverting water into the Hooghly River to keep the Kolkata port navigable during the dry season. However, this diversion significantly reduces the flow of water into Bangladesh, leading to a host of environmental, social, and economic problems, including reduced agricultural productivity, salinity intrusion, and a lack of drinking water.

Negotiations and Agreements

Over the years, several bilateral negotiations have taken place between India and Bangladesh to resolve the dispute. The most notable agreement was signed in 1996, known as the Ganges Water Sharing Treaty. This treaty aimed to establish a fair and equitable distribution of water between the two countries, ensuring the availability of water to Bangladesh during the dry season. The treaty specifies the sharing of water at Farakka and is based on a formula that takes into account the flow of water in different seasons.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Despite the treaty, challenges remain in the implementation of its provisions and in addressing the seasonal variability of the river's flow. Climate change poses an additional threat, potentially exacerbating the situation by altering precipitation patterns and reducing the overall flow of the Ganges. The future of the Ganges water dispute will likely depend on continued cooperation between India and Bangladesh, the adoption of sustainable water management practices, and the impact of climate change on water availability in the region.

See Also

• Water resources management
• International water law
• Transboundary water management