Centre Clarifies West Bengal's Role In Ganga Water Treaty Review

West Bengal was involved in the review of the Ganga Water Treaty with Bangladesh, according to sources at the Centre. This contradicts Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's assertion that the state was excluded from the process. The sources revealed that in April, a joint secretary from West Bengal's irrigation and waterways department communicated the state's total water demand for the next 30 years from the stretch downstream of the Farakka Barrage.

Technical-Level Talks Announced

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Saturday that India and Bangladesh will initiate technical-level discussions to renew the 1996 Ganga Water Treaty. The treaty, signed in 1996, is set to expire in 2026 but can be extended by mutual consent. In response, Banerjee wrote to Modi, claiming that the decision to start renewal talks was made unilaterally. She urged the Prime Minister not to proceed with any discussions with Bangladesh without involving the West Bengal government.

The Centre's sources clarified that on July 24 last year, they had requested a nominee from the West Bengal government for a committee tasked with conducting an internal review of the 1996 India-Bangladesh Treaty on Sharing of the Ganga/Ganges Waters at Farakka. Subsequently, on August 25 last year, West Bengal nominated the chief engineer design and research in the irrigation and waterways directorate to this committee.

Background of the Treaty

The Ganga Water Treaty between India and Bangladesh was established in 1996. This 30-year agreement is due for renewal in 2026 but may be extended if both nations agree. The treaty aims to ensure fair distribution of water from the Ganges River, particularly focusing on the stretch downstream of the Farakka Barrage.

In her letter, Banerjee expressed concerns about being left out of crucial discussions regarding water sharing with Bangladesh. She emphasised that any talks should include representatives from West Bengal to ensure that the state's interests are adequately represented.

Despite Banerjee's claims, sources at the Centre insist that West Bengal has been kept informed and involved in all relevant processes concerning the treaty's review. They highlighted that communication channels have been open and active between state and central authorities regarding this matter.

The involvement of West Bengal in these discussions is crucial due to its geographical location and dependence on water resources from the Ganges River. Ensuring fair allocation and sustainable management of these resources remains a priority for both state and central governments.

The ongoing dialogue between India and Bangladesh aims to address various technical aspects of water sharing. These discussions are expected to pave the way for a renewed agreement that considers current and future water demands while maintaining bilateral cooperation.

The Centre's clarification aims to dispel any misunderstandings about West Bengal's participation in treaty-related processes. It underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between state and central governments in managing shared water resources effectively.

As technical-level talks progress, it remains essential for all stakeholders to work together transparently. This cooperation will help achieve a balanced and equitable solution for water sharing between India and Bangladesh.

The renewal of the Ganga Water Treaty holds significant implications for regional water management. It highlights the need for continued dialogue and cooperation between neighbouring countries to address shared environmental challenges.