In spite of the recent complications in the Bangladesh-India relations, India continues to share crucial flood-related data with Bangladesh, to help the neighbouring country better manage and mitigate the impacts of floods.
Under the long-standing Bangladesh-India Joint Rivers Commission (JRC) framework, India has been providing real-time hydrological data - including water level, forecast level, discharge, and rainfall - from key stations on selected transboundary rivers including Ganga, Brahmaputra, Teesta and other major rivers, an official told UNB on Tuesday.
The purpose of this data-sharing initiative is to enable Bangladesh to make informed flood forecasts and issue early warnings, enhancing the country’s ability to safeguard lives and livelihoods during the monsoon season.
Previously, the designated period for data transmission was from May 1 to October 15. In response to changing climatic patterns and Bangladesh’s request, the period was extended in 2022 to October 31 to better address flood risks from a delayed retreating monsoon.
Recognising the need for faster communication, a dedicated instant messaging group was created with the officers of the Indian and Bangladeshi Water Resources Ministries in 2023 where Indian officers shared real time flood forecasting data to their Bangladeshi counterparts.
Created in addition to the official channels of communication, this platform ensures seamless and timely transfer of flood forecasting data from India to Bangladesh.
In addition to hydrological data, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) plays a vital role by issuing regular weather and flood forecasts for Indian states bordering Bangladesh.
These forecasts provide invaluable insight to Bangladeshi authorities, offering additional information for effective decision-making and emergency response planning.
As extreme weather events become more frequent due to climate change, the officials said, such cross-border coordination gives Bangladesh an added advantage in its flood management efforts.
