River Teesta

Why in News?

Recently, the Bangladesh Prime Minister visited China, where the two sides discussed the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project (TRCMRP).

• River Teesta – It is a tributary of the Jamuna River (Brahmaputra River), flowing through India (Sikkim & West Bengal) and Bangladesh.
• Origin – It rises from Tso Lhamo Lake (also known as Chho Lhamo Lake) in the eastern Himalayas near Chunthang in Sikkim.
• It flows to the south, cuts a deep gorge through the Siwalik Hills east of Darjeeling, then turns southeast through the Sivok Khola pass into the plains of West Bengal before entering Bangladesh.
• On entering Bangladesh, it merges with the river Jamuna and eventually drains into the Bay of Bengal.

• Tributaries
  • The major right bank tributaries include River Rangeet (largest tributary), Kanaka, Ringyong Chhu, etc.
  • Left bank tributaries include Rangpo, Lachung, Ranikhola, Relli, etc.
• Hydroelectric Potential – The Teesta River basin in India is a major hub for hydroelectric power; the largest generating facility is the 1200 MW Teesta-III project in Sikkim.

About TRCMRP

• TRCMRP – It is a river management & infrastructure initiative (for a 100 km stretch) between Bangladesh and China, which provides funding and implementation support.
• China’s Interest – China has for years shown interest in developing this project, located near India's sensitive Siliguri Corridor connecting the mainland with the northeastern states.
• The CBMEC, if completed, will give China direct access to the Bay of Bengal.

Quick Fact

References

1. The Hindu | Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project (TRCMRP)
2. Economic Times | Bangladesh, China agree to strengthen cooperation on Teesta river