Fair share of water to be ensured politically: Anee
Water Resources Minister Md. Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee on Sunday said Bangladesh will pursue political efforts to secure its fair share of water from Transboundary Rivers, including through renewal of the Farakka Treaty.
He made the remarks while addressing a seminar titled “Transboundary Cooperation in South Asia: Prospects and Challenges” as the chief guest at the auditorium of the Institute of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) in the capital today.
The minister said Bangladesh shares 57 transboundary rivers with neighbouring countries, and regional peace, food and water security, environmental sustainability, climate resilience and economic prosperity are closely connected to these rivers, he said.
“The Farakka Treaty will be renewed politically and the fair share of water will be ensured,” the minister said.
The minister blamed the previous government’s lack of political foresight and a subservient policy for failing to ensure Bangladesh’s fair share of water from the Farakka.
State Minister for Water Resources Forhad Hossain Azad, Narsingdi-5 constituency lawmaker Md Ashraf Uddin Bakul and Prime Minister’s Special Assistant on Environment, Forest and Climate Change Dr. Md. Saimum Parvez attended the seminar as special guests.
Anee said South Asian countries are facing growing risks from climate change, floods, river erosion, drought, salinity and water scarcity.
He said stronger transboundary cooperation could help countries exchange information on river flows and flood forecasting, conduct joint research, respond to disasters and develop climate-resilient infrastructure.
The minister stressed the need for stronger cooperation among South Asian countries to address common challenges, including sustainable water management, climate change, energy and regional connectivity.
State Minister Azad said the government led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has been working tirelessly for the country’s development since assuming office.
“The Padma Barrage project has already been approved and work on it will begin soon. Work on the Teesta Master Plan will begin at the earliest once the technical advisory committee gives its opinion,” he said.
He expressed hope that Bangladesh would become self-reliant through implementation of the Padma Barrage, the Teesta Master Plan and canal excavation, reflecting the vision of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman.
Association of Engineers Bangladesh Member Secretary Engineer Shahrin Islam Tuhin chaired the seminar, while Bangladesh Water Development Board Additional Chief Engineer Dr Mohammad Abul Hossain delivered the keynote speech.
Former secretary Engineer ANH Akhtar Hossain, among others, attended the seminar.
