BD, India must share flood data for timely forecast

The Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre (FFWC) of Bangladesh issued a warning that low-lying areas in Sylhet, Rangpur and Rajshahi divisions could experience short-term flooding as water levels in major rivers continue to rise following heavy monsoon rainfall.

At a time when FFWC's warning raises concern it is important to coordinate flood data between Bangladesh and India. The two neighbours are continuing to share real-time flood-related data under an established bilateral cooperation framework. At a time when timely hydrological data is critical, the real-time sharing of information plays an important role in improving flood forecasts and enabling early warning systems that help protect communities living in flood-prone regions.

India and Bangaldesh have maintained long-standing cooperation on transboundary river management through the Joint Rivers Commission.

 Under this arrangement, India provides Bangladesh with information on river water levels, discharge rates, rainfall patterns and forecast assessments from key monitoring stations on the Ganges, Brahmaputra, Teesta and several other shared rivers. 

Recognizing the impact of changing climate patterns on the monsoon season, Bangladesh and India agreed in 2022 to extend the annual flood data-sharing period. Previously, information was exchanged from May 1 to October 15. The revised arrangement now continues until October 31, allowing better monitoring of late-season floods and flash flood risks.