Context:
India and Bangladesh Joint River Commission (JRC) recently met in Kolkata for a two-day session to discuss the Ganges Water Treaty, a pivotal agreement that has governed water sharing between the two nations since 1996. With the treaty set to expire in 2026, the March 6-7, 2025 meeting aimed to address its renewal and other related water-sharing concerns.
About the Ganges Water Treaty:
Signed in 1996, the Ganges Water Treaty ensures equitable water distribution from the Ganges River, preventing one country from diverting water during dry seasons. This agreement holds significant economic, environmental, and cultural importance for both countries. The Joint River Commission (JRC), established in 1972, manages 54 trans-boundary rivers between India and Bangladesh and has played a key role in overseeing the treaty.
Key Issues Discussed:
1. Renewal of the Ganges Water Treaty:
With the treaty's expiration in 2026, both countries focused on renewing the agreement. Discussions centered on improving the existing framework while addressing new challenges related to water-sharing.
2. Water Sharing Beyond the Ganges:
Another major topic was the sharing of water from other rivers flowing from India into Bangladesh. A technical committee was formed to recommend fair water distribution from these additional rivers, which has become a prominent issue in recent years.
3. Measurement of Water Flows:
Accurate water flow measurement is essential for maintaining transparency and ensuring fair water distribution. The technical committee also worked on resolving challenges related to measuring water flows.
4. Ensuring Equitable Distribution:
The treaty’s core principle remains the equitable distribution of water. Both countries emphasized preventing unilateral actions, especially during dry seasons, to preserve fairness.
Importance of the Meeting:
The meeting marked the first significant water-sharing discussions after the change of government in Bangladesh in August 2024. It was a crucial step in strengthening bilateral relations and reaffirming the commitment to cooperation on shared water resources.
Way Forward:
As the treaty's expiration approaches, continued dialogue is essential for renewing the agreement. Both nations are committed to resolving challenges cooperatively. With climate change and water scarcity becoming pressing global issues, the renewal of the Ganges Water Treaty, along with progress on other trans-boundary rivers, will play a vital role in shaping future India-Bangladesh relations and may serve as a model for international water-sharing agreements.
