Chief Adviser’s High Representative Dr Khalilur Rahman on Tuesday sought optimum cooperation from India in renewing the Ganges Water Sharing Treaty, which is set to expire in 2026.
“The Ganges Water Sharing Treaty is going to expire next year, so we are hoping for optimum cooperation from India (in renewing the pact),” he told the press at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka.
He said Dhaka and New Delhi remain in contact so that discussions on the treaty’s renewal can begin as soon as possible.
The Ganges Water Sharing Treaty, signed in 1996 between India and Bangladesh, is a 30-year agreement that outlines water sharing during the dry season (January–May) at Farakka.
Responding to a question regarding water sharing of the Teesta River, the high representative said the lives and livelihoods of about 14% of the country’s population, who reside in the Teesta River basin, depend on the availability of the river's water.
Ensuring a minimum flow of river waters is one of the top priorities of the Bangladesh government, he said.
“We cannot put about 14% of the people in such a dire situation, and that’s why we continue to hold discussions with all stakeholders. We are urging India to sign the deal (the Teesta Water Sharing Treaty),” Khalilur said.
Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam and Deputy Press Secretary Apurba Jahangir were also present at the press briefing.
