Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh has voiced her preference for India to undertake a significant project aimed at conserving and developing the Bangladeshi portion of the Teesta River. The project, estimated to cost $1 billion, was a topic of discussion between Hasina and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during her recent visit to New Delhi. Modi had mentioned that an Indian technical team would soon be visiting Dhaka for discussions regarding the conservation and management of the Teesta River, which is a shared resource between the two countries.
Hasina stated that both India and China had expressed interest in the Teesta project, with China conducting a feasibility study and India offering to do the same. Despite offers from both countries, Hasina expressed her inclination towards India for the project due to India’s control over the flow of the Teesta’s waters. She emphasized the importance of effective implementation of the project by India to ensure the necessary water supply for Bangladesh.
The Teesta River has been a point of contention between India and Bangladesh as they have been unable to reach a water-sharing agreement due to objections from the West Bengal government. Hasina highlighted the necessity for proper water flow management by the upper riparian state for the success of the project. Notably, concerns have been raised by the Indian side regarding awarding the project to a Chinese firm, citing potential risks associated with data security and strategic presence near the Siliguri Corridor.
The proposed Teesta project holds significant diplomatic implications as Bangladesh looks towards India to address the longstanding issue of water sharing. With both countries vying for the opportunity to undertake the project, the decision-making process will be crucial in determining the future of the Teesta River and the bilateral relations between India and Bangladesh.
