Water Resources Minister Md. Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee today 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' at the Institute of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) in Dhaka. The minister highlighted that Bangladesh shares 57 transboundary rivers with neighboring countries, and emphasized that regional peace, food and water security, environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and economic prosperity are closely connected to these rivers.
'The Farakka Treaty will be renewed politically and the fair share of water will be ensured,' the minister said. He 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 pointed out that South Asian countries are facing growing risks from climate change, floods, river erosion, drought, salinity, and water scarcity. He stressed that 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 underscored 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 mentioned that the government led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has been working tirelessly for the country's development since assuming office. He announced that the Padma Barrage project has been approved and work will begin soon. Additionally, work on the Teesta Master Plan will commence once the technical advisory committee gives its opinion.
The seminar was chaired by Association of Engineers Bangladesh Member Secretary Engineer Shahrin Islam Tuhin, while Bangladesh Water Development Board Additional Chief Engineer Dr Mohammad Abul Hossain delivered the keynote speech. Former secretary Engineer ANH Akhtar Hossain and other dignitaries attended the event. Ensuring a fair share of water from transboundary rivers is crucial for Bangladesh's water security, agricultural productivity, and overall economic stability.
