Bangladesh urges India on Teesta water sharing
Analysis based on 12 articles · First reported Aug 18, 2026 · Last updated Aug 18, 2026
The unresolved Teesta water-sharing dispute adds geopolitical tension between India and Bangladesh, potentially affecting bilateral trade and investment flows. Bangladesh's engagement with China on the Teesta project could shift regional dynamics, impacting infrastructure and energy projects in the region.
Bangladesh Water Resources Minister Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Anee urged India to consider Dhaka's interests in resolving the long-pending Teesta water-sharing issue, stressing that friendly ties should not deteriorate. Bangladesh is pursuing a China-backed Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project to address floods, erosion, and dry-season water shortages in northern districts. The minister emphasized the urgent need for a treaty or master plan, noting that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman regularly discusses the project. During Rahman's June visit to Beijing, China committed to expedite the technical feasibility study. India has conveyed its views through India — Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal and maintains that the issue must be addressed with all stakeholders, including India — West Bengal. The Teesta dispute has been a major irritant in India-Bangladesh water cooperation for decades, with a 2011 draft agreement blocked by India — West Bengal's opposition. The issue is separate from the Ganges Water Sharing Treaty, which expires in December 2026.
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