Why in news?
During an army training exercise near Pakyong in Sikkim, a raft capsized on the Teesta River, leading to the tragic death of a soldier. The incident drew attention to the river’s challenging currents and the need for safety during water sports and training activities.
Background
The Teesta is a major tributary of the Brahmaputra (called the Jamuna in Bangladesh). Rising from glaciers around the Tso Lhamo Lake and Zemu Glacier at about 5,200 m in North Sikkim, it flows southwards, carving deep gorges through the Himalayas. After traversing Sikkim and West Bengal, the river enters Bangladesh and joins the Brahmaputra at Fulchhari. The Teesta basin covers roughly 12,540 km², of which 83 % lies in India and 17 % in Bangladesh.
Course and tributaries
- Upper course: From its glacial sources the river flows south through steep valleys past Chungthang and Mangan in Sikkim, receiving tributaries such as the Lachung Chhu, Dik Chhu and Rangpo Chhu.
- Middle course: Near the border of Sikkim and West Bengal, the river turns southeast, cutting a gorge through the Darjeeling hills. The Rangeet River, its major right‑bank tributary, joins at Teesta Bazar.
- Lower course: Emerging onto the plains, the Teesta meanders through Jalpaiguri and Cooch Behar districts before crossing into Bangladesh. There it flows past Lalmonirhat and merges with the Brahmaputra.
- Hydropower and irrigation: Dams like Teesta III (1,200 MW) and Teesta V (510 MW) in Sikkim and the Gajoldoba barrage in West Bengal harness the river for electricity and irrigation. In Bangladesh, the Duani and Barakhata barrages channel water for agriculture.
Ecological and cultural importance
- Biodiversity hotspot: The upper Teesta valley hosts alpine meadows, temperate forests and species such as the red panda and snow leopard. Riverine habitats support fish that sustain local communities.
- Cultural significance: For the indigenous Lepcha people, the Teesta and its confluence with the Rangeet River are sacred. Festivals and folklore celebrate the river’s life‑giving qualities.
- Adventure sports: Sections of the Teesta offer challenging rapids for white‑water rafting and kayaking, attracting tourists and training exercises – though safety precautions are essential.
- Water sharing challenges: India and Bangladesh have long negotiated a water‑sharing treaty for the Teesta. Hydropower projects upstream and climate‑induced glacial retreat reduce dry‑season flows downstream, complicating negotiations and affecting farmers.
Conclusion
The Teesta River is a lifeline for millions, powering homes, irrigating fields and nurturing biodiversity. Responsible hydropower development, safety measures for recreation and equitable water sharing are essential to balance human needs with ecological health.
Source: TELE
