In a significant move for transboundary water cooperation, India and Bangladesh have commenced a detailed joint measurement of water levels in the Ganga and Padma rivers. This critical exercise, which began on January 1, 2026, comes as the pivotal Ganges Water Sharing Treaty of 1996 enters its final year.
A Critical Data Collection Exercise
The bilateral initiative involves teams from both nations measuring water flow at multiple designated points along the shared river system. As per the treaty's stipulations, the measurements will be recorded every ten days over a five-month period, running from January 1 to May 31, 2026. This systematic data collection is a cornerstone of the treaty's implementation framework, ensuring transparency and mutual trust.
The Context of the Ganges Treaty
The Ganges Water Sharing Treaty, signed in 1996, is a landmark 30-year agreement that governs the sharing of the Ganga's waters at the Farakka Barrage. It was established to address Bangladesh's concerns about water flow during the critical dry season. The treaty is set to expire in 2027, making the data gathered in this final full water year before its renewal exceptionally important for future negotiations.
The current joint measurements will provide an authoritative and mutually agreed-upon hydrological dataset. This information is expected to form the factual basis for discussions on the treaty's future, whether it involves renewal, extension, or potential modification.
Implications for Diplomacy and Water Security
The collaborative exercise underscores a continued commitment to diplomatic engagement on shared natural resources. For millions of people in both countries who depend on the river for agriculture, drinking water, and ecology, the treaty's outcome is a matter of vital water security.
The successful execution of this measurement protocol demonstrates the operational strength of the Indo-Bangladesh Joint Rivers Commission. As the treaty's end date approaches, this cooperative spirit will be essential in navigating the complex discussions ahead to ensure an equitable and sustainable water-sharing arrangement for the next era.
