Include water issues in election manifesto

International Farakka Committee (IFC) Bangladesh called on all the political parties to include the country's most pressing water issues in their election manifestoes.

They made the call at a press briefing in the city on Monday, says a press release.

IFC New York Chairman Sayed Tipu Sultan and IFC Bangladesh President Mostafa Kamal Majumder spoke on the occasion.

At the press conference, the speakers outlined a set of demands, emphasising the inclusion of river and water rights in the election manifestos of all the parties.

"The parties must clearly articulate their position on ensuring the natural flow of the shared rivers, and also commit to protecting the water rights of the people of Bangladesh," said Sayed Tipu Sultan.

Urging the political leaders to address the water issues with urgency, he said, "A firm national stance against the construction of upstream dams and diversion of water by India should be taken, as upstream interventions on 54 of the 57 common rivers have intensified environmental degradation in Bangladesh."

Highlighting the upcoming expiration of the 30-year Ganga Water Treaty in 2026, the committee demanded necessary reforms to ensure guaranteed water availability for Bangladesh. The IFC leaders also insisted that the renewed agreement must include an arbitration mechanism to resolve disputes between the countries.

They urged the immediate conclusion of the long-pending Teesta Water Treaty, stalled since 2011, and stressed the need to stop the complete withdrawal of dry-season flows at the Gajoldoba Barrage in West Bengal, which severely affects Bangladesh's north-western region.

The leaders also stressed the need for a comprehensive, coordinated and equitable water treaty for all 54 common rivers.

Sayed Tipu Sultan emphasised protecting the environment and biodiversity, particularly in the south-west region, where dozens of rivers have already died due to reduced flows.

Mostafa Kamal Majumder urged national consensus among all the political parties, groups, and citizens on protecting Bangladesh's rights over trans-boundary waters as well as raising awareness among people.

syful-islam@outlook.com