BNP Secretary General and Local Government Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said that India’s Farakka Barrage has turned into a “death trap” for Bangladesh, warning that continuous water withdrawal from shared rivers poses a serious threat to the country’s existence.
In a statement issued on Friday marking “Farakka Day” on 16 May, he alleged that India has repeatedly violated international laws and conventions by constructing dams on shared rivers flowing into Bangladesh.
Concerns Over Shared Rivers
Mirza Fakhrul said India’s unilateral withdrawal of water through dams on the 54 shared rivers between the two countries has disrupted natural river flow and created severe environmental consequences for Bangladesh.
“The signs of Bangladesh turning into a barren and infertile land are already visible,” he said.
He added that the significance of Farakka Day remains highly relevant even after nearly five decades.
Reference to Historic Long March
Recalling the historic movement led by Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani, Mirza Fakhrul said millions of people joined the “Long March to Farakka” 49 years ago demanding Bangladesh’s fair share of Ganges water under international law.
“The historic march brought global attention to the issue of the Farakka Barrage and its humanitarian consequences,” he stated.
Allegations Against Former Government
The BNP leader also criticized the former Awami League government, claiming it allowed India to operate the Farakka Barrage on a trial basis despite public opposition.
According to him, the continued operation of the barrage has severely affected the northwestern region of Bangladesh, causing water shortages, environmental imbalance, and threats to biodiversity.
“Ignoring environmental standards and the possibility of natural and humanitarian disasters, the then Awami League government permitted the experimental operation of the Farakka Barrage. That temporary approval has now become a deadly trap,” he alleged.
Environmental Impact
Mirza Fakhrul warned that reduced river flow has intensified ecological imbalance in northern Bangladesh and deprived people of their rightful share of water.
He emphasized that the issue remains a major concern for Bangladesh’s environment, agriculture, and overall water security.
