Human chain formed in Rajshahi demanding fair Ganges water sharing

A human chain was held in Rajshahi city marking “Farakka Day,” demanding fair distribution of Ganges water between Bangladesh and India under the slogan: “No more unequal water treaties, ensure rightful share of the Ganges.”

The programme was organised on Saturday morning (May 16) at Saheb Bazar Zero Point by the Rajshahi unit of Bangladesh River Protection Movement, where speakers raised concerns over river depletion, environmental damage and the impact of the Farakka Barrage.

Speakers said the construction of the Farakka Barrage has significantly reduced water flow in the Padma River and other northwestern rivers of Bangladesh, affecting agriculture, biodiversity, navigation and livelihoods.

They warned that increasing river dryness is turning parts of the Padma basin into char lands resembling desert-like conditions. According to them, water flow now remains natural for only three to four months a year, while large portions of the river remain dry sandbeds for the rest of the year.

Citing research, speakers claimed that the Padma River’s width during the dry season has decreased by nearly 50 percent compared to 1984. They also noted that several tributaries have dried up completely, while others have lost their natural course, creating severe groundwater shortages in the Barind region.

Rajshahi University geology expert Prof. Dr. Chowdhury Sarwar Jahan said the Padma is now “a dying river,” warning of rising temperatures and ecological imbalance if the situation continues.

Bangladesh Water Development Board official Md. Rashidul Islam, however, said the country is receiving water as per the 1996 Ganges Water Sharing Treaty, which allocates around 35,000 cusecs during the dry season, though reduced flow is being felt due to seasonal conditions.

Speakers also noted that the 1996 water-sharing agreement is set to expire in December 2026 and urged the government to pursue stronger diplomatic efforts to secure Bangladesh’s fair share of transboundary river water.

The event was attended by leaders of the River Protection Movement, Rajshahi Bar Association, journalists, poets, and representatives from various socio-cultural organizations.