The Farakka Barrage. (File photo)
New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs (foreign ministry) has addressed concerns and misinformation regarding the release of water from the Farakka Barrage into Bangladesh. The foreign ministry spokesman, Randhir Jaiswal, clarified that the water release is a routine seasonal occurrence due to increased inflow from heavy rainfall in the Ganga river basin.
This comes just days after India rubbished allegations through a foreign ministry clarification that release of water from its dams were causing floods downstream in Bangladesh.
Jaiswal emphasized that the Farakka Barrage is not a dam but a barrage, as the name suggests, which is designed to divert 40,000 cusecs of water into the Farakka canal. The remaining water flows naturally downstream into the Ganga/Padma river, ensuring a balanced distribution. He highlighted that the barrage’s operation is a standard procedure during the monsoon season when water levels rise due to rainfall.
Jaiswal also addressed the spread of fake videos and rumours that have caused unnecessary alarm in flood-affected areas of Bangladesh. He said, “We have seen media reports of the opening of [the] Farakka Barrage gates that will allow the flow of over 11 lakh cusecs of water downstream. This is a normal seasonal development.” He urged the public to counter misinformation with facts and reassured that data regarding water flow is regularly shared with Bangladesh’s India-Bangladesh Joint Rivers Commission officials following bilateral protocols.
In response to concerns about potential flooding, Jaiswal reiterated that the water release is managed carefully and does not pose a threat to downstream regions. He noted that all gates of the Farakka Barrage are typically kept open during the monsoon to manage the increased water flow effectively.
Bangladeshi officials have also confirmed that the water-sharing treaty with India remains effective, ensuring a cooperative approach to managing the river’s resources. Mohammed Abul Hossen, a Bangladeshi member of the India-Bangladesh Joint Rivers Commission, stated that the treaty governs water distribution from January to May, with the rest of the year managed through the barrage’s operational protocols.
The foreign ministry’s clarification aims to dispel fears and promote transparency in water management between India and Bangladesh, reinforcing the importance of factual information in addressing cross-border environmental concerns. Also, currently Bangladesh is going through a political turmoil and there is widespread resentment towards India among Bangladeshis for New Delhi’s perceived support to the ousted prime minister, Sheikh Hasina Wazed.
