Dhaka: Chief Adviser’s High Representative Dr Khalilur Rahman today sought optimum cooperation from India in renewing the Ganges Water Sharing Treaty as it is set to expire in 2026. ‘The Ganges Water Sharing Treaty is going to be expired next year, so we are hoping optimum cooperation of India (in renewing the pact),’ he stated at a press briefing at the Foreign Service Academy, responding to a query.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr Khalilur emphasized that Dhaka and New Delhi are in continuous contact to ensure that discussions regarding the renewal of the water treaty can commence at the earliest opportunity. The Ganges Water Sharing Treaty, originally signed in 1996 between India and Bangladesh, is a 30-year agreement that outlines water sharing during the dry season from January to May at Farakka, focusing on maintaining a minimum flow for Bangladesh.
Addressing another query about the water sharing of the Teesta River, Dr Khalilur highlighted the significance of the Teesta’s water for the livelihood of approximately 14 percent of Bangladesh’s population living in the Teesta River basin. Ensuring the minimum availability of river waters remains a top priority for the Bangladesh government, he noted.
‘We cannot put about 14 percent of the people in such a dire situation and that’s why we continue talks to all. We are asking India to sign the deal (the Teesta water sharing treaty),’ Dr Khalilur asserted. Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam and Deputy Press Secretary Apurba Jahangir were also present at the press briefing.