Teesta River: Balancing Water & Power

The Teesta River, a critical lifeline for both India and Bangladesh, has once again become a focal point of diplomatic tensions. Bangladesh’s move to involve China in the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project (TRCMRP) has sparked concerns in New Delhi over China’s growing foothold in South Asia.

The Teesta River: Lifeline of Millions

• Length & Course: The Teesta River spans 414 km, flowing through:
  • Sikkim (India): 151 km
  • West Bengal (India): 142 km
  • Bangladesh: 121 km
• Significance:
  • Supports agriculture and drinking water needs
  • Sustains diverse ecosystems
  • Serves as a vital resource for millions
• The Challenge: Water-sharing disputes, especially during dry seasons, have long fueled tensions between India and Bangladesh.

Teesta Water-Sharing Dispute: A Stalemate

• The water-sharing pact remains unresolved, mainly due to resistance from West Bengal’s Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee.
• Diplomatic Friction: Reduced water flow into Bangladesh during lean seasons has heightened tensions.
• Failed Negotiations: Despite efforts, including near-consensus talks during PM Manmohan Singh’s 2011 visit, a lasting agreement remains elusive.

Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project (TRCMRP)

• Objective: Ensure sustainable water management, control flooding, and restore ecosystems.
• Bangladesh’s Initiative:
  • Focus on pollution reduction and community-led conservation
  • Engage PowerChina for feasibility studies and project planning
• Key Goals:
  • Sustainable water distribution
  • Flood prevention
  • Environmental restoration

India’s Concerns & Countermeasures

• Strategic Moves: India plans to send a technical team to discuss Teesta’s management, aiming to safeguard its regional influence.
• Core Concerns:
  • Growing Chinese involvement in South Asia
  • Potential risks of surveillance and geopolitical maneuvering

China’s Expanding Role in the Teesta Project

• Broader Strategy: The TRCMRP aligns with China’s long-term interests in South Asia.
• Past Collaborations:
  • The 2016 China-Bangladesh agreements opened doors for investments, including river management.
  • The MoU between Bangladesh Water Development Board and PowerChina solidifies China’s role in the project.
• India’s Apprehension: China’s increasing regional presence heightens India’s strategic concerns.

Future Outlook: Shifting Regional Dynamics

• Bangladesh’s Conditions:
  • Public consultations
  • A finalized masterplan by December 2026
• Expert Opinions: A multilateral approach—involving India, China, and international agencies—could pave the way for balanced water management.
• Potential Shifts: Bangladesh’s tilt toward China could reshape South Asia’s geopolitical landscape.

Geopolitical Context: Beyond Water Management

• The Teesta River basin lies near India’s sensitive northeastern corridor, amplifying security concerns.
• China’s deepening ties with Bangladesh could influence border stability and broader regional alliances.
• Experts warn of a possible Bangladesh-China-Pakistan axis, further complicating India’s strategic calculus.