Bangladesh to initiate talks with India over water sharing: Rizwana

Water Resources Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has said Bangladesh will soon take steps to hold negotiations with India on the sharing of water of transboundary rivers, reports BSS.

“The negotiations will be held after considering public opinion and the outcomes of the talks will be shared with the people,” Rizwana said while speaking at a seminar titled “Bangladesh’s Fair Share of Water in Shared Rivers” at Pani Bhaban in the capital on Wednesday to mark World Rivers Day.

Addressing the event as the chief guest, Rizwana said although the water sharing of international rivers is a complex issue, the exchange of essential information should not be political one.

One country can want the rainfall data and location of structures in rivers, and the data exchange can help prevent harm to lives and properties, she added.

Rizwana, also the environment, forest and climate change adviser, said a country cannot go to the international court unilaterally on such issues but both nations must go to it.

“Sharing rainfall data is a humanitarian issue. Necessary data should be given for saving lives. Bangladesh’s claims will be made clearly and strongly,” she said.

The adviser stressed protecting the country’s internal rivers, describing them as living entities that must be collectively saved.

Researchers, environmentalists and government officials participated in the seminar.