JD(U) launches campaign for Bihar's fair share of Ganga water

The Janata Dal (United) party is launching a campaign from Buxar on Saturday to oppose the renewal of the India-Bangladesh treaty on sharing Ganga waters, demanding a fair share for Bihar. The treaty is scheduled for renewal on December 12. The phased campaign, called the "Nitish dialogue," will cover 12 districts along the Ganga from Buxar to Katihar. Party leaders say the treaty should not be renewed, or if it is, Bihar's water needs until 2050 must be considered. The party claims the Farakka barrage has caused heavy siltation, reduced the river's depth and carrying capacity, and contributed to recurring floods in the region. Farmers and intellectuals will participate in the inaugural event.