Archive · 5 Jan 2026
Ganges Water Treaty Renewal Faces Political Challenges
The Ganga Water Treaty (GWT) between India and Bangladesh is set to expire in December 2026.
This treaty helps both countries share the water of the Ganga River, especially during the dry season.
The treaty has a special formula to divide the water based on how much is available.
However, there are big challenges.
The Ganga River Basin is facing water shortages, and Bangladesh is asking for more water to meet its needs.
Politically, things are tense between India and Bangladesh, especially because India is sheltering a former Bangladeshi leader.
The success of renewing the treaty depends on solving these political issues and getting the support of the Indian state of West Bengal.
The Ganga Water Treaty (GWT) between India and Bangladesh is set to expire in December 2026 and can be renewed by mutual consent.
The treaty uses a dynamic formula to share water based on 10-day cycles and historical averages, adjusting for different flow levels.
Both countries face water scarcity issues, with India's major states and Bangladesh's Padma River experiencing declining water levels.
Bangladesh has sought a guaranteed release of 40,000 cusecs of water between February and May to meet its demand.
Political tensions between India and Bangladesh, particularly over the sheltering of Sheikh Hasina, and the position of West Bengal, are significant challenges to the treaty's renewal.
- Who
- India and Bangladesh
- What
- Renewal of the Ganga Water Treaty (GWT)
- When
- Treaty expires in December 2026
- Where
- Ganga River Basin (India) and Padma River (Bangladesh)
- Why
- To ensure equitable water sharing and address water scarcity issues
- Treaty Name
- Ganga Water Treaty (GWT)
- Current Expiry Date
- December 2026
- Renewal Basis
- Mutual consent
- Water Sharing Formula
- Dynamic based on 10-day cycles and historical averages
- Key Rivers Involved
- Ganga (India), Padma (Bangladesh)
- Major States Affected in India
- Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal
- Bangladesh's Water Demand
- 40,000 cusecs between February and May
- Political Factor
- Ties between New Delhi and Dhaka