Negotiations between India and Bangladesh over the renewal of the Farakka Water Treaty have shown little progress as the landmark agreement approaches its 2026 expiry. The proposed Padma Barrage project, estimated to cost over 50,000 crore taka, has long remained on hold but is now being actively pursued by Bangladesh’s Water Development Board. Treaty Tensions and Political UndercurrentsSigned in 1996 for a 30-year term, the Farakka Water Treaty governs the sharing of Ganges water during the dry season from January to May. Padma Barrage and Strategic ImplicationsBangladesh argues that declining water availability in its southwest since the commissioning of Farakka makes the Padma Barrage essential. As the Farakka Treaty renewal approaches, water diplomacy between India and Bangladesh appears set to become increasingly complex.

Source: dna January 24, 2026 02:47 UTC