The plight of northern Bangladesh’s residents, grappling with severe water shortages due to the mismanagement of the Teesta River, demands immediate attention.
Yesterday’s newspaper reported that the ongoing crisis not only jeopardises agricultural productivity but also threatens the fabric of local ecosystems and livelihoods. As communities rally for effective management of this vital water source, the need for decisive action has never been more pressing.
Despite the previous government’s initiation of the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project, progress has stagnated, largely due to geopolitical complexities involving India and China.
The Ministry of Water Resources has confirmed that no significant advancements have been made, leaving the region in a precarious state.
Residents from 12 Upazilas, including Rangpur and Lalmonirhat, have taken to the streets, forming human chains to voice their desperation.
As Safiar Rahman of the Nadi Bachao Sangram Parishad aptly stated, “We cannot wait indefinitely for an agreement with India.” The reluctance of India to release a fair share of Teesta water during the dry season has exacerbated the crisis, leaving farmers like Abdul Kader to watch their crops wither and their livelihoods hang in the balance.
The involvement of China, which has already conducted a feasibility study and offered substantial financial support, presents a viable path forward. However, political dynamics have complicated matters, with the previous Awami League government prioritising India’s interests. The recent change in administration offers a fresh opportunity to reassess priorities and focus on the needs of the Bangladeshi people.
Experts, including Shahab Enam Khan from Jahangirnagar University, emphasise prioritising national interests over external pressures. The Teesta project is not merely a political issue; it is a matter of survival for millions. The interim government must act decisively, leveraging existing studies and offers to implement a solution that benefits its citizens.
As discussions with China loom, it is imperative that the government prioritize the Teesta project. The time for indecision has passed; the people of northern Bangladesh deserve a sustainable solution to their water crisis. The Teesta River is not just a geographical feature; it is a lifeline that must be managed effectively for the sake of future generations.
