Bangladesh’s interim government has sent a positive signal on resolving the Teesta river water-sharing issue that has been at the center of India-Bangladesh disputes for decades. Bangladesh will soon take steps to negotiate with India on sharing water in cross-border rivers, an interim government adviser said on Wednesday.
According to Bangladesh government news agency BSS, interim government water resources adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan said at an event that Bangladesh will soon try to share water resources in cross-border rivers with India Negotiate.
He said the talks will be held after taking into account public opinion and the results of the talks will be shared with the people.
Rizwana said water sharing in international rivers was a complex issue, but the exchange of important information should not be political.
He said any country can request information on rainfall data and river conditions, the Press Trust of India news agency reported. Data exchange helps prevent loss of life and property.
Environment, forest and climate change adviser Rizwana said no country could unilaterally approach the international tribunal on such issues but both countries should go there.
He further said, “Sharing rainfall data is a humanitarian issue. Necessary data should be provided to save lives. Bangladesh will state these things clearly and firmly (in the international court).
Muhammad Yunus’ stance on Teesta water sharing dispute
Earlier this month, Bangladesh’s interim government chairman Dr Muhammad Yunus had said the interim government would explore ways to resolve differences with India over the long-pending Teesta water-sharing treaty.
He once said, “Nothing good will come from sitting on this issue (water sharing).” It would be better if I knew how much water I would get, even if I wasn’t happy with the amount, and signed on. This problem must be solved.
Teesta water sharing deal pending for decades
The 414-kilometer-long Teesta River originates from the Pahunli Glacier in the Himalayas, which is about 7 kilometers above sea level. The Teesta River enters India through Sikkim and flows into Bangladesh through West Bengal.
India and Bangladesh were originally scheduled to sign the Teesta water-sharing agreement in 2011 during then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s visit to Dhaka. But West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee refused to support it, citing water shortages in the state, so the agreement remains in effect.
Since then, the agreement has been pending and there has been an ongoing dispute between the two countries over the water of the Teesta river.
