Summary: The Ganga Water Treaty renewal in 2026 presents an urgent chance for India and Bangladesh to address climate challenges and improve equitable water sharing.
The Ganga Water Treaty, signed in 1996 between India and Bangladesh, governs the water sharing of the transboundary Ganga River. This vital treaty, essential for bilateral relations, is set to expire in 2026. Both nations face increasing challenges due to seasonal water scarcity and climate variability, emphasizing the urgent need for a revised and more equitable treaty that accounts for evolving environmental conditions.
Background of the Ganga Water Treaty
The treaty established a framework for sharing the Ganga’s waters during dry seasons based on historical flow data from 1949 to 1988, measured at the Farakka Barrage in India. Water allocation depends on flow volumes, with Bangladesh and India typically dividing the water equally if flows are 70,000 cusecs or less. However, the treaty does not guarantee a minimum water share, instead relying on diplomatic consultations during low-flow situations. The Joint Rivers Commission is tasked with overseeing compliance and resolving disputes.
Challenges and Criticisms of the Treaty
Bangladesh has frequently criticized the treaty as disproportionately favoring India, with water shortages occurring during critical dry periods. From 1997 to 2016, Bangladesh often received less than its stipulated water share, especially during peak demand months from March to May. Additionally, the treaty’s emphasis on a single measurement point does not address the Ganga’s ecological and hydrological complexity adequately. Climate change has further exacerbated floods and droughts in both countries, highlighting the limitations of the current treaty in adapting to new environmental realities.
Negotiations and Business Opportunities Ahead
Renewal negotiations are ongoing, with the West Bengal state government playing a critical role, as its approval is essential. Incorporating adaptive water allocation methods and enhanced river-flow modeling can help manage variability and support flood mitigation efforts. Strengthening cross-border institutional mechanisms could reduce unreported upstream water withdrawals. Business opportunities exist in developing innovative water management technologies, climate-resilient infrastructure, and data-driven environmental monitoring systems that would benefit industries, agriculture, and communities dependent on the Ganga basin.
Given these factors, the renewed treaty must balance equitable water distribution, ecological preservation, and climate resilience, fostering sustainable economic and environmental benefits for both nations.
Source: Eco-Business
Tag: Policy,Water Treaty,India,Bangladesh