In a strong statement highlighting the ongoing water disputes between Bangladesh and India, there is a growing call for the construction of a second Farakka Barrage, located just 40 kilometers away from the existing one, at a height of 7,500 feet. The proposal aims to address the challenges Bangladesh faces due to the release of water from the Farakka Barrage by India, particularly during the monsoon and dry seasons.
The Need for a Second Barrage
According to experts, the current situation has become increasingly untenable for Bangladesh. The existing Farakka Barrage, built by India on the Ganges River, has long been a point of contention between the two neighboring countries. During the monsoon season, India releases water from the barrage, often at midnight when people are asleep, causing sudden floods in Bangladesh. Critics argue that this is done deliberately, with devastating consequences for Bangladeshi communities living downstream.
The proposed second barrage, to be constructed 40 kilometers downstream of the existing one, would be built at a height of 7,500 feet—higher than India’s barrage, which stands at 7,350 feet. Proponents of the project argue that this new barrage would help Bangladesh better manage the excess water released by India, ensuring that it remains within the country’s borders and is used effectively during the dry season.
Monsoon and Dry Season Challenges
During the monsoon, India releases water into the Ganges River, which often results in severe flooding in Bangladesh. The proposed barrage would help contain this water within a 40-kilometer range, preventing it from causing widespread damage. If India releases more water than expected, the new barrage could divert it back into Indian territory, forcing them to manage their own excess water more effectively.
Conversely, during the dry season, when water levels are critically low, India has been accused of withholding water, leading to severe water shortages in Bangladesh. The construction of a second barrage would allow Bangladesh to store water during the monsoon season and release it during the dry season, ensuring a more consistent water supply for agriculture, industry, and daily use.
A Strategic Move
The call for a second Farakka Barrage is seen as a strategic move by Bangladesh to assert its rights over shared water resources. Experts believe that such a project could significantly alter the dynamics of water management between the two countries. By constructing a barrage with a higher elevation, Bangladesh could potentially gain greater control over the flow of water from the Ganges River, reducing its dependency on India’s management decisions.
Conclusion
As water disputes continue to strain relations between Bangladesh and India, the proposal for a second Farakka Barrage is gaining traction. Advocates argue that it is time for Bangladesh to take decisive action to protect its water resources and ensure the well-being of its citizens. While the construction of such a barrage would require significant investment and international cooperation, many believe it is a necessary step to safeguard the country’s future.
The coming months will be critical in determining whether this ambitious project moves forward, as Bangladesh seeks to secure its water rights in the face of growing challenges.
