Dhaka, June 08: Demanding its "rightful share" in the common rivers, Bangladesh has alleged that "unilateral withdrawal" of water by India has resulted in adverse impact on its environment and economy. "Unilateral withdrawal of water by India through Farakka point was adversely affecting various sector of national economy including environment of Bangladesh," Minister for Environment and Forest Shahajahan Siraj was quoted as saying by the country’s official news agency.
"Free flow of water in common rivers is internationally accepted. We hope international forums will come forward to resolve this problem to ensure Bangladesh's rightful share in common rivers," Shiraj said at a seminar yesterday. Several speakers at the seminar said the insufficient water in the common rivers was causing various problems ultimately affecting the economy as well as the environment in Bangladesh.
Water Resources Minister Hafizuddin Ahmed addressing the seminar said Farakka barrage had created a blockade to slow down the flow of the International River Ganges creating various problems in Bangladesh. "The problem should be resolved internationally, " said Ahmed Sai, adding, "We have to depend on the ‘goodwill’ of our neighbour.... It can not be a ‘permanent’ solution.”
The previous Awami League government Sheikh Hasina held talks with India on sharing on river waters, which resulted in the signing Ganges Water Sharing Agreement in 1996. Bureau Report