CLIMATE CHANGE AND WATER SECURITY IN SOUTH ASIA
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Date
2023-05-18
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DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
Abstract
Climate change and water security are among the most pressing issues faced by South Asian countries. This case study examines the Indian Hydro Aggression on Bangladesh from 2010 to 2022, which highlights the impact of climate change on water resources and the geopolitical implications of water security in the region. The research focuses on the significance of this case study in understanding the complex interplay between climate change, water security, and geopolitical tensions in South Asia. The study addresses the problem of the unequal distribution of water resources and the effects of water scarcity on vulnerable populations, particularly in Bangladesh. The methodology used in this study includes a qualitative analysis of secondary sources, including academic articles, government reports, and news articles. The study also analyses primary sources, such as interviews with experts in the field, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Indian Hydro Aggression and its impact on Bangladesh. The results of the study indicate that climate change has resulted in a reduction in water resources, which has led to an increase in geopolitical tensions between India and Bangladesh. The Indian Hydro Aggression, which involves the construction of dams and the diversion of water from rivers that flow into Bangladesh, has exacerbated water scarcity, and affected the livelihoods of millions of people in Bangladesh. The study’s implications suggest that the issue of water security must be addressed urgently to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change and reduce geopolitical tensions in South Asia. This requires a shift in focus from national interests to regional cooperation, including the adoption of integrated water resource management policies that prioritize the needs of all stakeholders. The Indian Hydro Aggression on Bangladesh is a clear example of the ongoing issues related to unequal distribution of water resources and the geopolitical tensions that arise due to the same. Despite signing several treaties between India and Bangladesh, the issue of water sharing remains contentious, and the Indian Hydro Aggression has further intensified the problem. Moreover, the impacts of climate change, such as floods and droughts, exacerbate the water scarcity issue in Bangladesh, affecting vulnerable populations and their livelihoods. The Indian Hydro Aggression in Bangladesh has caused reduced freshwater availability, salinization of soil, and a decline in fish production, emphasizing the need for integrated water resource management and regional cooperation to address water security and mitigate climate change effects.