Initiation of the Brahmaputra Basin Network

About the event

The event will facilitate the initiation of the Brahmaputra Basin Network (BBN), as recommended by the research findings on the study entitled “Elevating River Basin Governance and cooperation in the HKH region.” This 2021 research initiative was commissioned by ICIMOD and Australian Water.

Building on the insights from the decade-long Brahmaputra Dialogue, the research suggests that dialogues should be multi-track, including representatives from the government, civil society, academia, local communities, vulnerable groups, industries, and the private sector. This multi-track diplomacy can build momentum and legitimacy, enabling more formal agreements. In this regard, the BBN was envisioned. This meeting with key stakeholders will provide guidance and strategic direction to advance the process.

Objectives

• Facilitate discussions between multi-stakeholders (government, civil society organisations, funding agencies, academia, scientific community, media)
• Envision a network for a multi-track and multi-stakeholder dialogue to address diverse challenges and opportunities in the basin

Expected outcome

• Guidance and strategic direction to initiate the Brahmaputra Basin Dialogue

Background

The Yarlung Tsangpo-Manas-Brahmaputra River, referred as the Brahmaputra River, is fed by large ice reserves. A substantial portion of the annual precipitation in the high altitudes of the region falls as snow. The glaciers are also the headwaters of several of the river systems providing sources of drinking water and irrigation supplies for billions of people. These rivers generate hydropower and support important ecological values, such as fisheries. The impact on glaciers will have a direct effect on the lives and livelihood of people downstream. The communities in the basin are facing increased water insecurity in the wake of inadequate planning coupled with a rapidly changing climate. This water insecurity is attributed to poor water governance, lack of land use planning, climate-related risks and challenges.

Therefore, a more informed water management regime that will understand the critical ecosystem processes and services of water in terms of providing sustainable food security in the region, clean water and sanitation, and sustenance of aquatic ecosystems, can help in the long run in achieving the SDGs. A holistic water management approach is therefore paramount for securing safe water supply.

Agenda

Facilitator: Neera Shrestha Pradhan, ICIMOD