High-level talks in Bhutan have yielded a strategic consensus between New Delhi and Thimphu to enhance partnership on shared rivers and hydropower development. Leading the Indian side, Secretary V.L. Kantha Rao of the Water Resources Department conducted a productive visit from February 24-27, joined by ministry officials, Assam and West Bengal delegates, and WAPCOS personnel.
The bilateral meeting scrutinized advancements in the Punatsangchhu-I project and evaluated cooperative structures for flood control and predictions. Conversations spotlighted the need to upgrade Bhutan’s cross-border hydro-meteorological systems, improve real-time data flows, and expand training initiatives.
Challenges from climate change, including GLOFs and erratic weather, dominated the discourse, with calls for deeper technical collaboration. Rao’s subsequent interactions included a meeting with Energy Minister Lyonpo Gem Tshering and field assessments of Punatsangchhu-I (under construction), Punatsangchhu-II (newly operational), NCHM in Thimphu, Chamgang water plant, and Wangdue’s flood monitor.
This initiative solidifies the duo’s pledge to integrated basin management, bolstering resilience against hydrological risks. India’s reaffirmed commitment signals a brighter future for equitable hydropower harnessing and disaster preparedness, fostering enduring regional harmony.