THE LONG-TERM RESOLUTION OF THE GANGES WATER DISPUTE

This comprehensive analysis examines the protracted Ganges water dispute between Bangladesh and India and explores prospects for achieving a long-term, sustainable resolution. The article investigates the historical evolution of the dispute, from the initial concerns about the Farakka Barrage to ongoing negotiations about water sharing arrangements. The research analyzes the technical dimensions of the Ganges river system, including hydrological patterns, seasonal variations, and environmental impacts of water diversion. The study examines the legal and institutional frameworks governing transboundary water management in South Asia and assesses their effectiveness in resolving the Ganges dispute. The article evaluates previous agreements and negotiation processes, identifying factors that have facilitated or hindered progress toward sustainable solutions. The research also considers the broader regional context, including the relationship between water sharing and overall bilateral relations between Bangladesh and India. Furthermore, the analysis proposes a comprehensive framework for long-term resolution that balances national interests with regional cooperation and environmental sustainability.

The Ganges water dispute represents one of the most significant transboundary water conflicts in South Asia, with this article providing a comprehensive analysis of the prospects for long-term resolution in the early 1980s. The research begins by examining the historical context of the dispute, tracing the evolution from initial Bangladeshi concerns about the Farakka Barrage construction through various temporary agreements and negotiation rounds. The analysis explores the technical dimensions of the Ganges river system, investigating hydrological characteristics, seasonal flow variations, and the environmental and agricultural impacts of water diversion on both countries. The article examines the legal framework for transboundary water management, analyzing relevant principles of international water law and their application to the Ganges dispute. The study assesses previous agreements including the 1977 accord and subsequent memoranda of understanding, evaluating their implementation challenges and limitations in addressing long-term water security concerns. The research investigates the negotiation dynamics between Bangladesh and India, analyzing how political relations, domestic considerations, and changing leadership affected water diplomacy. Based on the comprehensive assessment, the article develops a framework for sustainable resolution that incorporates technical solutions, institutional mechanisms, and confidence-building measures. The findings provide valuable insights into the challenges of managing shared water resources in regions with asymmetric power relations and contribute to understanding how environmental security issues affect bilateral relations in South Asia.