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India, Bhutan Boost Water Ties & Hydropower Projects in Key Talks

India and Bhutan have concluded high-level official talks in Thimphu to deepen cooperation on shared rivers and hydropower. The discussions focused on reviewing ongoing projects like Punatsangchhu-I and modernizing flood forecasting systems. Both sides agreed to enhance data-sharing and address challenges from climate change and glacial lake outburst floods. The visit reaffirmed their commitment to the sustainable management of trans-boundary water resources.

Key Points: India-Bhutan Strengthen Trans-boundary River, Hydropower Cooperation

  • Strengthened trans-boundary river cooperation
  • Review of Punatsangchhu hydropower projects
  • Enhanced flood forecasting & data sharing
  • Focus on climate change & GLOF challenges
2 min read

India, Bhutan deepen ties on trans-boundary rivers, hydropower projects

High-level talks in Thimphu focus on flood management, hydropower projects like Punatsangchhu, and climate resilience in shared river basins.

"enhance water resources management, flood forecasting, and climate resilience in shared river basins - Official Statement"

New Delhi, Feb 27

India and Bhutan have decided to further strengthen bilateral cooperation on trans-boundary rivers and hydropower projects at a high-level official meeting in Thimphu, according to an official statement issued on Friday.

V. L. Kantha Rao, Secretary, Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation (DoWR, RD and GR), Ministry of Jal Shakti, led an Indian delegation comprising officers from the ministry, officials from the Assam and West Bengal governments and WAPCOS Ltd., to the Kingdom of Bhutan from February 24-27.

The two sides discussed matters related to cooperation on trans-boundary rivers and to review the ongoing activities of the Punatsangchhu-I Hydro Electric Project being implemented in Bhutan in partnership with the Government of India.

During the Secretary-level bilateral meeting held on Wednesday, the two sides reviewed the existing mechanisms of bilateral cooperation between India and Bhutan in flood management and flood forecasting.

Further deliberations focused on strengthening and modernising the existing hydro-meteorological observation network in Bhutan on trans-border rivers, improving data-sharing mechanisms for hydro-meteorological and flood forecasting data relating to trans-border rivers, enhancing collaboration in capacity building and technical exchanges, and addressing emerging challenges arising from climate change, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), and extreme weather events.

After the bilateral meeting, Secretary Rao paid a courtesy call on Lyonpo Gem Tshering, Bhutan's Minister for Energy and Natural Resources.

The Secretary also visited the Punatsangchhu-I Hydro Electric Project under construction and the recently commissioned Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project in Bhutan on Thursday. He held meetings with officials of PHPA-I and PHPA-II and reviewed the progress of these projects. Other site visits included the National Centre for Hydrology and Meteorology (NCHM), Bhutan, in Thimphu; the 3.5 MLD Water Treatment Plant at Chamgang; and the NCHM flood monitoring station near Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, the statement said,

The visit aimed to enhance water resources management, flood forecasting, and climate resilience in shared river basins. It reaffirmed the shared commitment of both countries to the sustainable and mutually beneficial management of trans-boundary water resources. The Secretary also conveyed India's continued support for deepening cooperation in water resources management, the statement added.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone who has worked in sustainable development, I appreciate the mention of addressing Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs). Climate change is a real threat to Himalayan water security. India and Bhutan collaborating on data sharing and modern observation networks is a smart, forward-looking step.
P
Priya S
Good to see our relationship with Bhutan growing stronger. They are a true friend. I just hope the hydropower projects are implemented with minimal environmental impact on the local ecosystems in Bhutan. Sustainable development should be the core principle.
R
Rohit P
Finally some positive news on cross-border cooperation! Better flood forecasting will be a lifesaver for people living along the Brahmaputra basin. Hope the data sharing mechanisms are made robust and real-time.
K
Karthik V
While the intent is good, I hope the execution is transparent. Hydropower projects often face delays and cost overruns. The article mentions reviewing the Punatsangchhu projects - hope they are on track and delivering the promised benefits for both nations.
M
Meera T
This is the kind of diplomacy we need more of - focusing on shared resources and mutual growth. Water is going to be the most critical resource in the coming decades. Strengthening ties with a friendly neighbour on this front is very strategic.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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