BPSC-WEB Chat

Farakka Barrage & Bihar’s Water Concerns -Core issue: Bihar argues that the Farakka water-sharing arrangement disproportionately affects downstream Bihar, making it both an inter-State federal issue and an India–Bangladesh water diplomacy issue. -Treaty: India–Bangladesh Ganga Water Sharing Treaty, 1996 expires on 12 December 2026; demand is for reconsideration before renewal. The 1996 Ganga Water Sharing Treaty, signed for 30 years (1996–2026), reflected the Gujral Doctrine of accommodating smaller neighbours without demanding strict reciprocity; its renewal must also safeguard Bihar’s riparian interests. -Unequal burden on Bihar: In lean season, about 1,500 cumec is required at Farakka, while only about 400 cumec reaches Bihar from upstream; Bihar contributes nearly 73% of the remaining requirement through the Ganga and its tributaries. -Upstream–downstream inequity: Around 75% of the Ganga catchment lies upstream of Bihar, yet upstream States use water for irrigation/hydropower, while Bihar bears a disproportionate responsibility for maintaining downstream flow. -Flooding & siltation: Reduced/altered flow and heavy silt deposition in the Ganga raise the riverbed, aggravating floods, bank erosion and waterlogging in Bihar; districts such as Darbhanga and Madhubani also face groundwater stress. -Ecological impact: Disturbed flow affects the Ganga’s ecological continuity, including aquatic biodiversity such as the Gangetic dolphin, and increases risks from pollutants like arsenic and fluoride. -Water-sharing concern: Bihar needs water for irrigation, drinking water and industry, but the existing arrangement leaves limited lean-season water; the article flags the need to reassess allocation in light of rising demand and climate variability. -Demographic pressure: Bihar’s population has risen sharply since the 1996 agreement, substantially increasing domestic, agricultural and livelihood water requirements. Way forward: Any renewal/revision of the Ganga Water Treaty (1996) should be based on scientific assessment of basin-wide water availability, ensure minimum ecological flow, address silt management, and formally accommodate the interests of riparian States such as Bihar. Takeaway: Transboundary river agreements must balance international commitments with federal equity, ecological sustainability and the legitimate developmental needs of riparian States. #GS1mains #BIHARspecial