01-Apr-2025
River Teesta
World Affairs
Why in News?
- Bangladesh plans to involve China in the River Teesta restoration project.
- The decision comes amidst long-standing delays in the Teesta water-sharing treaty between India and Bangladesh.
About Teesta River
- Origin: Begins as Chhombo Chhu from the Khangchung Chho glacial lake in Sikkim.
- The lake is located at the snout of the Teesta Khangse glacier, descending from Pauhunri Peak.
- Flow Path: Flows through Sikkim and West Bengal, and then enters Bangladesh, where it merges with the Jamuna River (a distributary of the Brahmaputra).
Major Tributaries
- Left-bank tributaries: Lachung Chhu, Rangpo Chhu, Chakung Chhu, etc.
- Right-bank tributary: Rangeet River (the largest tributary).
Teesta Water-sharing Treaty (2011 Draft):
- Proposed sharing formula during dry season:
- India: 42.5%
- Bangladesh: 37.5%
- Status: Implementation halted due to objections from West Bengal, citing concerns over water availability for the state.