Archive · 2 Jul 2025
India Eyes Ganga Water Treaty Revision with Bangladesh
India is looking to update its water-sharing agreement with Bangladesh, which concerns the Ganges River.
This treaty, made in 1996, decides how water from the Farakka Barrage is shared between the two countries.
The current agreement is set to end in 2026.
India wants more water to meet its rising needs, including for farming, ports, and power.
The original goal was to help the area with water needs, now it includes urban use too.
West Bengal says the current rules do not provide enough water for its industries and for people to drink.
The changes seek to ensure a fair balance of water sharing between both countries.
India is considering changes to the Ganga Water Treaty with Bangladesh.
The current treaty, established in 1996, concerns water sharing at the Farakka Barrage.
India seeks a revised treaty to address its growing developmental water needs.
The existing treaty expires in 2026 after a 30-year period.
West Bengal's government states current provisions are insufficient for its needs.
- Who
- India and Bangladesh.
- What
- India is planning to revise the Ganga Water Treaty with Bangladesh.
- When
- The current treaty expires in 2026.
- Where
- The Farakka Barrage in West Bengal, India, and the surrounding regions.
- Why
- To address India's increasing water demands and adapt to changing needs in West Bengal.
India's perspective
Bangladesh's perspective
Water Allocation
India's perspective
Seeking more water to meet increasing needs, including for agriculture, ports, and power.
Bangladesh's perspective
Current provisions may not meet all requirements
- Treaty Year
- 1996
- Treaty Expiration
- 2026
- Location
- Farakka Barrage, West Bengal
- River
- Ganga/Ganges
- Current Water Sharing
- 35,000 cusecs on alternating 10-day cycles during dry season
- Objective
- Address disputes over water distribution