While meeting at the highest level in Thimphu, India and Bhutan decided to increase their collaboration on hydroelectric projects and rivers that cross international borders.
V. L. Kantha Rao, Secretary of the Department of Water Resources under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, led the Indian group, which also included representatives from Assam, West Bengal, and WAPCOS Ltd. Topics covered included flood prediction and control as well as the development of the Punatsangchhu-I Hydro Electric Project in collaboration with the Indian government.
Glacier lake outburst floods (GLOFs) and other climate change issues were discussed as both parties examined data sharing procedures for hydrometeorological observations and looked into ways to update monitoring systems and improve capacity building. While in Bhutan, the Secretary met with Lyonpo Gem Tshering, the minister of energy and natural resources, and saw the newly operational Punatsangchhu-II hydroelectric project.
During the visit, the leaders of India and Bhutan reiterated their dedication to managing transboundary water resources in a sustainable and mutually beneficial way.
