The government has taken diplomatic initiatives to begin negotiations with India for signing a new treaty on the sharing of the Ganges River's waters. Water Resources Minister Syed Uddin Chowdhury Annie disclosed this on Tuesday in response to a written question from ruling party lawmaker Md. Mostafizur Rahman in the National Parliament.

The minister stated that India has been invited through diplomatic channels to hold talks on signing a new agreement. A high-level technical committee has already been formed, which is working while considering Bangladesh's interests and concerns.

Current Status and Expiry of the Treaty

In his question, lawmaker Md. Mostafizur Rahman sought to know the stage of discussions with India regarding the renewal or conclusion of a new treaty, as the current Ganges water-sharing agreement is set to expire in December this year.

In response, the minister noted that the potential impact on Bangladesh's water availability during the dry season from January 1st, should the treaty not be renewed within the stipulated time, is being taken into consideration. However, the minister's statement to parliament did not elaborate on the specific consequences if the treaty is not renewed.

Debate Over the Proposed Ganges Barrage

Meanwhile, efforts are underway to dispel public confusion regarding the proposed 'Ganges Barrage' project, which is linked to the water-sharing issue. In a reaction welcoming an article titled 'Why Padma Barrage is Needed, Where the Main Challenges Lie' written by a professor from the Water Resources Engineering department at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), it was stated that the proposed Ganges Barrage could become a 'second Farakka' for the people of the Pangsha region.

The reaction further noted that the more discussion there is before implementing a project of such immense public importance as the proposed Ganges Barrage, the better. However, it was mentioned that the article contained some statements that could create confusion among the public. It was also pointed out that the primary focus of past surveys was on selecting the location for the barrage, a matter on which differing opinions exist.

Diplomatic Progress

Although the government has invited India to hold talks, the date for a formal meeting between the two countries has not yet been finalized, as stated in parliament. The minister's remarks indicated that the technical committee is analyzing necessary data and strategic aspects to strengthen Bangladesh's position.

According to analysts, the Ganges water-sharing treaty is critically important for Bangladesh, particularly during the dry season. If a decision on a new treaty or renewal is not reached before the agreement expires in December, uncertainty over water availability could arise from next year.