Dhaka: Environment, forest and climate change adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has emphasized that the interim government will actively work to ensure that dam projects on the Siang River in Arunachal Pradesh and near the Tibet border are carried out without compromising Bangladesh’s interests. Speaking to journalists after a meeting at the River Research Institute, she highlighted the importance of maintaining Bangladesh’s water security amidst these developments.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rizwana Hasan mentioned that her government has formally sought information from China regarding their hydropower project near Tibet. China assured that the lower riparian countries will not be adversely affected, but further data has been requested through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She noted, “China is constructing the world’s largest hydropower project on the Yarlung Zangbo River, and while assurances have been given, it is crucial to have detailed information.”
The adviser also addressed India’s efforts to construct a dam on the Siang River, pointing out that even within India, there is opposition to the project. She expressed concerns about the potential impact on Bangladesh’s water flow, especially in rivers like the Teesta and the Padma. “If the Brahmaputra River also experiences reduced flow, it will create significant crises for us,” she warned. Bangladesh plans to formally request information from India to safeguard its interests.
Rizwana Hasan further stressed the importance of increased funding for river research and development. Despite having advanced research facilities, the current allocation of 8.4 million BDT is deemed insufficient for the study of Bangladesh’s 1,176 rivers. She expressed the intent to work towards increasing this allocation in the future.
In another context, Rizwana addressed recent student clashes at Dhaka University, calling for patience and responsibility. She highlighted the government’s investigation into potential external provocations and urged avoidance of actions that could disrupt the nation’s democratic progress.
The adviser was joined by officials, including Senior Secretary of the Shipping Ministry Mohammad Yousuf, Secretary to Water Resources Nazmul Ahsan, Director General of the River Research Institute SM Abu Huraira, and DG of the Water Development Board Tahmidul Islam. China’s approval for constructing the world’s largest dam on the Yarlung Zangbo River, a project described as its most ambitious to date, was announced in 2020.